Electrolytic co-deposition neutron production measured by bubble detectors

Abstract Co-deposition electrochemical cells are a simple means to examine novel nuclear reactions. In this study, palladium and deuterium atoms were co-deposited on a cathode at stoichiometric densities, forming dendritic morphologies. Bubble detector neutron dosimeters were used to measure equivalent dose levels during electrolytic deposition. Cells expected to produce excess neutrons were denoted as experimental cells and contained an electrolyte consisting of palladium(II) chloride, lithium chloride, and heavy water. The control cells used copper(II) chloride, lithium chloride, and heavy water electrolyte. Thirteen experimental and nine control cells were supplied current, increasing from 0.1 to 100.0 mA over a period of 20 days. Neutron radiation levels detected near experimental cells were, on average, greater than those measured near control cells for the entire test profile. For test days 9 through 20, the experimental cells exhibited significantly higher average neutron radiation than the controls at a 99% confidence level.