A chemical interpretation of heat generated in “cold fusion”

Thermochemical analyses reveal that the steady-state excess heating observed in the cold fusion experiments conducted by Fleischmann and Pons is attributable to the heat of formation of liquid deuterium oxide resulting from recombination of deuterium and oxygen gases generated in the electrolytic cell. The recombination is catalyzed by both electrodes and the extent of the reaction increases on stirring. Thermal effects of stored chemical energy arise from storage of deuterium atoms in supersaturated solid solution within the cathode volume. Their recombination to form deuterium gas builds up high internal pressures, causing multiple fracture. Excess heat is then liberated as deuterium atoms, and deuterium molecules fall into deep traps created on fresh palladium surfaces.