> PYROFUSION: A ROOM-TEMPERATURE, PALM-SIZED NUCLEAR FUSION
 > DEVICE has been reported by a UCLA collaboration, potentially
 > leading to new kinds of fusion devices and other novel
 > applications such as microthrusters for MEMS spaceships.

Another cold fusion story? Is this a hoax?

 > The key component of the UCLA device is a pyroelectric crystal, a
 > class of materials that includes lithium niobate, an
 > inexpensive solid that is used to filter signals in cell phones.

Hmm...

 > a copper disc which itself is surmounted by a tungsten probe.
 > They cool and then heat the crystal, which creates an electric
 > potential energy  of about 120 kilovolts at its surface.

There we have it: Eenrgy isn't expressed in Volts!

 > The electric field at the end of the tungsten probe tip is so high
 > (25 V/nm) that it strips electrons from nearby deuterium atoms.

25 V/m is not a strong field. Certainly not enough to strip electrons.

Cheers, Michiel

---