1. Deuterium Fusion Using Inertial Electrostatic Confinement
A Science Fair Project
By Michael Kovalchick
Dallastown Area High School

2. What is IEC Fusion?
Inertial Electrostatic Fusion (IEC) uses a high voltage well to ionize a fusion fuel gas and then cause collision of the ions to induce fusion.
Super hot temperatures over 100 million Kelvin are required.

3. Why Study IEC Fusion?
In spite of a great deal of research emphasis on magnetic confinement fusion, Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (IEC) Fusion is the only nuclear fusion method that produces sustained reactions.
IEC fusion can be performed on a small scale.
The goal of the project was to build an actual
operating nuclear fusion reactor.

4. What was needed?
A vacuum chamber capable of tolerating a harsh plasma environment (KitchenAid mixing bowl)
Pumps needed to achieve a high vacuum
A high voltage power supply
Deuterium gas
Neutron detection equipment
Safety equipment
Experienced adult oversight
Some space in the basement

5. The Reactor

6. The Results
Test run using Helium Gas
Artificial star of deuterium plasma.
Fusion achieved!
When deuterium plasma was confined, neutrons were detected outside the chamber.

7. Conclusion
The project was successful at building a tabletop nuclear fusion reactor
The reactor is useful for plasma and neutron studies
Personal experience was gained in a variety of science and engineering areas.