Neutrons in a nanosecond low-pressure discharge in deuterium

Abstract

Stable neutron generation with a yield of ∼1.2 × 10⁴ neutrons per pulse was obtained during d(d,n)³He reaction initiated by the high-voltage nanosecond discharge in a gap with a potential tungsten cylinder (anode) and a grounded deuterated zirconium plate (cathode) filled with deuterium at a pressure of ∼10² Pa. Estimated duration of the neutron pulse was ∼1.5 ns. Less intensive neutron emission was registered without deuterated plate. Splashing of material of the tungsten electrode was observed during the high-voltage nanosecond discharge in the deuterium, hydrogen, helium and argon at pressures of 10²–10⁴ Pa.