Pyroelectric fusion using a tritiated target

We demonstrate a compact 14.1 MeV neutron source by which deuterons are accelerated into a tritiated target via the action of a pyroelectric crystal. At the ion currents we measured, the expected flux is about 3×105 neutrons per second. Although our measured flux was much less than expected, spectral analysis of the neutron signal unambiguously verified a 14.1 MeV neutron signal far above background. The experimental fusion rate is limited by surface flashover and the time development of a surface barrier on the target due to chemical contamination. Various improvements in the, management of flashover originating from triple points and stabilization of field ionization tips are discussed.