Changes

The process - disclosed only in part, although a patent application was filed (not approved as of yet) - involves that nickel and hydrogen are transformed to copper in the presence of hydrogen gas and on emission of heat and ionized radiation. The patent application claims  the stable nickel isotope 62Ni28 (which makes about 3.6% of usual nickel) reacted with hydrogen and was transformed into the stable copper isotope 62Cu29. The copper thus generated is said to contain two stable copper isotopes, with an isotope proportion different from the one in natural copper.<ref>According to S.&nbsp;Focardi in an E-Mail: ''[...] mostra l'esistenza di Cu (non presente inizialmente) i cui due isotopi stabili sono in un rapporto diverso da quello naturale [...]''</ref> Such a fusion would require very high temperatures and should result in a strong gamma radiation from the destruction of positrons and electrons.<ref>According to Prof. Jonghwa Chang, Chief Research Advisor of the "Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute", answer to an inquiry by an Italian chemist. see: [http://www.queryonline.it/2011/01/31/il-ritorno-della-fusione-fredda-2/]</ref>  

The process - disclosed only in part, although a patent application was filed (not approved as of yet) - involves that nickel and hydrogen are transformed to copper in the presence of hydrogen gas and on emission of heat and ionized radiation. The patent application claims  the stable nickel isotope 62Ni28 (which makes about 3.6% of usual nickel) reacted with hydrogen and was transformed into the stable copper isotope 62Cu29. The copper thus generated is said to contain two stable copper isotopes, with an isotope proportion different from the one in natural copper.<ref>According to S.&nbsp;Focardi in an E-Mail: ''[...] mostra l'esistenza di Cu (non presente inizialmente) i cui due isotopi stabili sono in un rapporto diverso da quello naturale [...]''</ref> Such a fusion would require very high temperatures and should result in a strong gamma radiation from the destruction of positrons and electrons.<ref>According to Prof. Jonghwa Chang, Chief Research Advisor of the "Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute", answer to an inquiry by an Italian chemist. see: [http://www.queryonline.it/2011/01/31/il-ritorno-della-fusione-fredda-2/]</ref>  

While initially using nickel rods, recent experiments used nickel powder (particle size is said to be in the nm-range, the patent application mentions 10 µm). Rossi mentions "Gerli Metalli" company<ref>Powder nickel: Gerli Metalli--Milan</ref> from Milan as their supplier. Further unknown catalysts even not specified in the patent application are said to be employed. Internet rumours not verifiable claim this may be [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raney_nickel "Raney-Nickel"], since two fires in Rossi's laboratories were caused by "Raney-Nickel". Nickel oxide - which reacts with hydrogen creating water and heat (NiO2&nbsp;+&nbsp;H2 -->&nbsp;Ni&nbsp;+&nbsp;H20) – allegedly was not used. According to the patent application a inner water circuit(with a boric acid solution) is designed to be in the reactor and heat is transfered using a heat exchanger to an external water circuit.

While initially using nickel rods, recent experiments used nickel powder (particle size is said to be in the nm-range, the patent application mentions 10 µm). Rossi mentions "Gerli Metalli" company<ref>Powder nickel: Gerli Metalli--Milan</ref> from Milan as their supplier. Further unknown catalysts even not specified in the patent application are said to be employed. Internet rumours not verifiable claim this may be [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raney_nickel "Raney-Nickel"], since two fires in Rossi's laboratories were caused by "Raney-Nickel". Nickel oxide - which reacts with hydrogen creating water and heat (NiO2&nbsp;+&nbsp;H2 -->&nbsp;Ni&nbsp;+&nbsp;H20) – allegedly was not used. According to the patent application a inner water circuit(with a boric acid solution) is designed to be in the reactor and heat is transferred using a heat exchanger to an external water circuit.

By adding electric heating capacity, protons from hydrogen gas are said to enter the nickel atoms at 180 to 400 degrees Celsius and lead to a nuclear reaction if pulsed pressure was increased at regular intervals. Altogether, hydrogen is said to be consumed and some helium is generated.<ref>S. Focardi, V. Gabbani, V. Montalbano, F. Piantelli, S. Veronesi. "''Large excess heat production in Ni-H systems''". Il Nuovo Cimento Vol. 111 A, N.11 pp. 1233, novembre 1998</ref> The nickel rod is said to show tiny surface craters after a reaction. According to the patent application, the electrical pre-heating will be turned off automatically by a thermostat when a certain operating temperature is achieved. Further electrical energy (20 to 80 W) was only necessary to supply control electronics. Internet rumours which cannot be verified claim that high voltage or a magnetic field of 360&nbsp;kV to overcome the [http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coulomb_barrier Coulomb barrier] may be applied. The application of so high a voltage is not possible within such a small device due to spark generation.

By adding electric heating capacity, protons from hydrogen gas are said to enter the nickel atoms at 180 to 400 degrees Celsius and lead to a nuclear reaction if pulsed pressure was increased at regular intervals. Altogether, hydrogen is said to be consumed and some helium is generated.<ref>S. Focardi, V. Gabbani, V. Montalbano, F. Piantelli, S. Veronesi. "''Large excess heat production in Ni-H systems''". Il Nuovo Cimento Vol. 111 A, N.11 pp. 1233, novembre 1998</ref> The nickel rod is said to show tiny surface craters after a reaction. According to the patent application, the electrical pre-heating will be turned off automatically by a thermostat when a certain operating temperature is achieved. Further electrical energy (20 to 80 W) was only necessary to supply control electronics. Internet rumours which cannot be verified claim that high voltage or a magnetic field of 360&nbsp;kV to overcome the [http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coulomb_barrier Coulomb barrier] may be applied. The application of so high a voltage is not possible within such a small device due to spark generation.

:''The above mentioned coatings are so designed as to restrain all radiation emitted by the exothermal reaction and transform said radiation into thermal energy.''

:''The above mentioned coatings are so designed as to restrain all radiation emitted by the exothermal reaction and transform said radiation into thermal energy.''

A contribution in their blog speculatively connects the Focardi Rossi Energy Amplifier to the [[hydrino]] theorie of American physician and electrical engineer Randell Mills who claims to work with hydrogen and nickel, too.<ref>[http://www.journal-of-nuclear-physics.com/?p=338 E. Stremmenos: Hydrogen/Nickel cold fusion probable mechanism. Journal of nuclear physics, 12.12.2010]</ref> Supporters of "cold fusion" theories often claim so-called [[Low Energy Nuclear Reactions]] (LENR) were taking place. The term LENR is not known to professional journals and such fusion processes were not proven as of yet.

A contribution in their blog speculatively connects the Focardi Rossi Energy Amplifier to the [[hydrino]] theory of American physician and electrical engineer Randell Mills who claims to work with hydrogen and nickel, too.<ref>[http://www.journal-of-nuclear-physics.com/?p=338 E. Stremmenos: Hydrogen/Nickel cold fusion probable mechanism. Journal of nuclear physics, 12.12.2010]</ref> Supporters of "cold fusion" theories often claim so-called [[Low Energy Nuclear Reactions]] (LENR) were taking place. The term LENR is not known to professional journals and such fusion processes were not proven as of yet.

Further internet speculations assume this was a chemical reaction which apparently remained unknown to inventors and which was usually applied in the purification of nickel  ores: the Sherritt-Gordon process"<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobalt_extraction_techniques#Recovery_from_nickel-cobalt_sulfide_concentrates_.28Sherritt_process.29</ref>, which is accompanied by a heat release, but is a conventional chemical reaction. The evidence of copper thus may be explained by the fact that available nickel often contains copper contaminations.

Further internet speculations assume this was a chemical reaction which apparently remained unknown to inventors and which was usually applied in the purification of nickel  ores: the Sherritt-Gordon process"<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobalt_extraction_techniques#Recovery_from_nickel-cobalt_sulfide_concentrates_.28Sherritt_process.29</ref>, which is accompanied by a heat release, but is a conventional chemical reaction. The evidence of copper thus may be explained by the fact that available nickel often contains copper contaminations.

==Details regarding Nickel Consumption and Cost==

==Details regarding Nickel Consumption and Cost==

According to Rossi, 100&nbsp;grammes of nickel powder were consumed over a period of six months at 10&nbsp;kW (therm.) output. The cost for the "fuel" thus amounted to 2&nbsp;Euro.<ref>Nyteknik-Chat 12.03.2011, [http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/energi_miljo/energi/article3124295.ece]</ref> An E-cat will cost about 2,000&nbsp;Euro per kW output (a 10&nbsp;kW-model thus will amount to 20,000&nbsp;Euro). In the North-American radio talk show "Coast to Coast AM", which is known for propagating [[Conspiracy Theory|conspiracy theories]], Rossi said in March 2011 that his planned 1 MW small power station will cost 2 million dollar and later that his 10 kW E-Cat will cost just 5,000 dollar.<ref>Interview with Andrea Rossi, Talk Radio "Coast to Coast AM", on March 23, 2011 [http://www.coasttocoastam.com/article/rossi-cold-fusion-device]</ref> According to the Greek newspaper "Investors World" from march 2011 future "E-cat" devices will produce electrical power through an "inverter". Yearly cost for the production of 20 kW output round the clock(unclear if thermic or electric) will amount to 1,300 euros. "Defkalion green technologies" plans to request from RAE (regulatory authority for energy) to be included in the "renewable energy" program.<ref name="talefta">[http://talefta.blogspot.com/2011/03/new-mainstream-coverage-of-e-cat-and.html Blog about the "Investors World" article]</ref><ref name="scan">[http://www.xanthipress.gr/eidiseis/politiki/6874-xynidis-ependysi-hyperion-xanthi-ydrogono-nikelio-paragogi-energeias-ergostasio-xanthi.html Coverage and scan of the "Investors World" article] (Greek)</ref><ref name="Investors World Article">Article in the greek newspaper "Investors World" from March 12, 2011, Pages 20-21</ref>

According to Rossi, 100&nbsp;grammes of nickel powder were consumed over a period of six months at 10&nbsp;kW (therm.) output. The cost for the "fuel" thus amounted to 2&nbsp;Euro.<ref>Nyteknik-Chat 12.03.2011, [http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/energi_miljo/energi/article3124295.ece]</ref> An E-cat will cost about 2,000&nbsp;Euro per kW output (a 10&nbsp;kW-model thus will amount to 20,000&nbsp;Euro). In the North-American radio talk show "Coast to Coast AM", which is known for propagating [[Conspiracy Theory|conspiracy theories]], Rossi said in March 2011 that his planned 1 MW small power station will cost 2 million dollar and later that his 10 kW E-Cat will cost just 5,000 dollar.<ref>Interview with Andrea Rossi, Talk Radio "Coast to Coast AM", on March 23, 2011 [http://www.coasttocoastam.com/article/rossi-cold-fusion-device]</ref> According to the Greek newspaper "Investors World" from march 2011 future "E-cat" devices will produce electrical power through an "inverter". Yearly cost for the production of 20 kW output round the clock(unclear if thermic or electric) will amount to 1,300 Euros. "Defkalion green technologies" plans to request from RAE (regulatory authority for energy) to be included in the "renewable energy" program.<ref name="talefta">[http://talefta.blogspot.com/2011/03/new-mainstream-coverage-of-e-cat-and.html Blog about the "Investors World" article]</ref><ref name="scan">[http://www.xanthipress.gr/eidiseis/politiki/6874-xynidis-ependysi-hyperion-xanthi-ydrogono-nikelio-paragogi-energeias-ergostasio-xanthi.html Coverage and scan of the "Investors World" article] (Greek)</ref><ref name="Investors World Article">Article in the greek newspaper "Investors World" from March 12, 2011, Pages 20-21</ref>

==History==

==History==

1989 was marked by wide media attention to cold fusion as a result of the claims regarding failed experiments by Fleischmann and Pons. In the same year, Italian biophysicist Francesco Piantelli (University Siena) believed to have incidentally observed a strong heat emission with temperatures above  1,450°&nbsp;C during an experiment with organic material which came into contact with nickel and hydrogen, which he could not explain. The incident was reported by several Italian daily papers. In 1995, Piantelli received a "Truffle Prize" for his observations during a "Workshop on Anomalies in Hydrogen / Deuterium Loaded Metals".<ref>"Truffle Prize", second Asti Workshop on Anomalies in Hydrogen / Deuterium Loaded Metals, 1995</ref>

1989 was marked by wide media attention to cold fusion as a result of the claims regarding failed experiments by Fleischmann and Pons. In the same year, Italian biophysicist Francesco Piantelli (University Siena) believed to have incidentally observed a strong heat emission with temperatures above  1,450°&nbsp;C during an experiment with organic material which came into contact with nickel and hydrogen, which he could not explain. The incident was reported by several Italian daily papers. In 1995, Piantelli received a "Truffle Prize" for his observations during a "Workshop on Anomalies in Hydrogen / Deuterium Loaded Metals".<ref>"Truffle Prize", second Asti Workshop on Anomalies in Hydrogen / Deuterium Loaded Metals, 1995</ref>

Physicist Sergio Focardi from Bologna University heard about this and teamed up with Piantelli to research the phenomenon. After several years they had built a nickel hydrogen rector and, in a press conference in February 1994, announced their reactor as a principle for "Reazioni Nucleari a Bassa Energia" (LENR, "Low Energy Nuclear Reactions"), however avoiding the term "cold fusion".<ref>Press conference on 20.&nbsp;February 1994, Aula magna, University Siena</ref> Once more articles were published in the daily press and as before in 1989, there were no academic publications. An output of 40-50 thermical Watts was claimed. A nickel rod with a pre-treated surface which had been "degassed" for several hours was said to be enclosed in the reactor surrounded by hydrogen.

Physicist Sergio Focardi from Bologna University heard about this and teamed up with Piantelli to research the phenomenon. After several years they had built a nickel hydrogen rector and, in a press conference in February 1994, announced their reactor as a principle for "Reazioni Nucleari a Bassa Energia" (LENR, "Low Energy Nuclear Reactions"), however avoiding the term "cold fusion".<ref>Press conference on 20.&nbsp;February 1994, Aula magna, University Siena</ref> Once more articles were published in the daily press and as before in 1989, there were no academic publications. An output of 40-50 thermal Watts was claimed. A nickel rod with a pre-treated surface which had been "degassed" for several hours was said to be enclosed in the reactor surrounded by hydrogen.

==Presentation on January 14, 2011==

==Presentation on January 14, 2011==

[[image:FAE4.jpg|Video of an experiment taking several minutes during a public presentation on January 14, 2011 (Source: [http://curiositybox.wordpress.com/2011/01/16/bologna-14111-cronaca-test-fusione-fredda-del-reattore-nichel-idrogeno-focardi-rossi/ Curiosity-Blog])|300px|left|thumb]][[image:RF_Dauer2.jpg|Screenshot from a video of the experiment used to estimate its duration|thumb]][image:RF_Thermometer.jpg|Comparison of the shown probe to a HP474AC probe (Image: www.physicsforums.com)|thumb]][[image:RF_Pumpe.jpg|Specifications of the  used pump "LMI J5" (Image: www.physicsforums.com)|thumb]]

[[image:FAE4.jpg|Video of an experiment taking several minutes during a public presentation on January 14, 2011 (Source: [http://curiositybox.wordpress.com/2011/01/16/bologna-14111-cronaca-test-fusione-fredda-del-reattore-nichel-idrogeno-focardi-rossi/ Curiosity-Blog])|300px|left|thumb]][[image:RF_Dauer2.jpg|Screenshot from a video of the experiment used to estimate its duration|thumb]][image:RF_Thermometer.jpg|Comparison of the shown probe to a HP474AC probe (Image: www.physicsforums.com)|thumb]][[image:RF_Pumpe.jpg|Specifications of the  used pump "LMI J5" (Image: www.physicsforums.com)|thumb]]

Andrea Rossi and Sergio Focardi gave a press conference on January 14, 2011 which was not only attended by Italian public television station RAI (RAI&nbsp;3) and numerous journalists, but also by several physicists from universities. The presentation was done in rooms rented from the company "GM System" in an industrial area of Bologna<ref>Firma GM System, Via dell'Elettricista 16, Bologna</ref> and not in rooms of the Bologna University as claimed on various places in the internet.

Andrea Rossi and Sergio Focardi gave a press conference on January 14, 2011 which was not only attended by Italian public television station RAI (RAI&nbsp;3) and numerous journalists, but also by several physicists from universities. The presentation was done in rooms rented from the company "GM System" in an industrial area of Bologna<ref>Company GM System, Via dell'Elettricista 16, Bologna</ref> and not in rooms of the Bologna University as claimed on various places in the internet.

During the press conference the function of the reactor was demonstrated for only a few minutes in an adjoining room. Varying durations for the experiment between 15 and 40 minutes are available. A close look at the measured data on the screen of a laptop allow to conclude a for duration of 15-20 minutes the water temperature was higher than 100 degrees (see image). In the report about the experiment the data, which are seen on the notebook are omitted. The report also speaks of a duration of 40 minutes, obviously the whole duration including heating up is meant. The inventors reported about their experiment in their blog<ref>http://www.journal-of-nuclear-physics.com/?p=360</ref>, and published three Youtube videos in Italian language [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-0WvK2b7dU], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-Ru1eAymvE], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmHZrhTQhUc].

During the press conference the function of the reactor was demonstrated for only a few minutes in an adjoining room. Varying durations for the experiment between 15 and 40 minutes are available. A close look at the measured data on the screen of a laptop allow to conclude a for duration of 15-20 minutes the water temperature was higher than 100 degrees (see image). In the report about the experiment the data, which are seen on the notebook are omitted. The report also speaks of a duration of 40 minutes, obviously the whole duration including heating up is meant. The inventors reported about their experiment in their blog<ref>http://www.journal-of-nuclear-physics.com/?p=360</ref>, and published three Youtube videos in Italian language [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-0WvK2b7dU], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-Ru1eAymvE], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmHZrhTQhUc].

During the press conference they stated the heat input was 600&nbsp;Watts, at an estimated output of 12,000&nbsp;Watts (12&nbsp;kW). Inventors calculated the heat generated from heated water: 292 grammes of water per minute were heated from 20 degrees to 101 degrees (dry vapor) and evaporated. The attending physicists were allowed to take some measurements. They were disappointed, however, as a spectral analysis of the gamma radiation was denied due to secrecy reasons. A detailed report submitted by independent physicists from Bologna University stated that no gamma radiation was detected, although the device was supplied with two openings for measurement purposes. Excerpt from the report:

During the press conference they stated the heat input was 600&nbsp;Watts, at an estimated output of 12,000&nbsp;Watts (12&nbsp;kW). Inventors calculated the heat generated from heated water: 292 grammes of water per minute were heated from 20 degrees to 101 degrees (dry vapour) and evaporated. The attending physicists were allowed to take some measurements. They were disappointed, however, as a spectral analysis of the gamma radiation was denied due to secrecy reasons. A detailed report submitted by independent physicists from Bologna University stated that no gamma radiation was detected, although the device was supplied with two openings for measurement purposes. Excerpt from the report:

:''[...] no gamma radiation above the background level in the energy region Eγ > 200 keV has been observed, neither in single counting, not in coincidence;<br>regardless of the internal details of the reaction chamber, shieldings and other industrial secrets, the γ rates measured with the NaI counters seem not compatible with the rates deduced or expected assuming that the energy production was due to nuclear fusion or decay reactions, as suggested in [1].''

:''[...] no gamma radiation above the background level in the energy region Eγ > 200 keV has been observed, neither in single counting, not in coincidence;<br>regardless of the internal details of the reaction chamber, shieldings and other industrial secrets, the γ rates measured with the NaI counters seem not compatible with the rates deduced or expected assuming that the energy production was due to nuclear fusion or decay reactions, as suggested in [1].''

Observers were allowed to weigh the hydrogen gas container before and after the experiment (weight: 18.6 kgs). Even considering possible errors in measurement (duct tape still attached), hydrogen usage was estimated at less than one gramme, not enough to make conventional hydrogen combustion plausible. Link to the report: [http://www.psiram.com/doc/Levi%2C_Giuseppe_-_Report_on_heat_production_during_preliminary_tests_on_the_Rossi_Ni-H_reactor_%282010-2011%29.004810.pdf] The estimation of energy by evaporation of water was criticized in retrospect, as respective calculations were made based on dry vapour without fractions of condensed water which was not proven. The throughput of water claimed at 29 mls/min. was doubted, too, as the pump used had only half of this capacity.

Observers were allowed to weigh the hydrogen gas container before and after the experiment (weight: 18.6 kgs). Even considering possible errors in measurement (duct tape still attached), hydrogen usage was estimated at less than one gramme, not enough to make conventional hydrogen combustion plausible. Link to the report: [http://www.psiram.com/doc/Levi%2C_Giuseppe_-_Report_on_heat_production_during_preliminary_tests_on_the_Rossi_Ni-H_reactor_%282010-2011%29.004810.pdf]  

 

'''Inconsistencies:''' Not only was the duration of the experiment with 20 minutes shorter than the claimed duration, but there are also reasons to doubt the other claims of the inventor and operator of the experiment. The estimation of energy by evaporation of water was criticized in "www.physicsforums.com" in retrospect, as respective calculations were made based on dry vapour without fractions of condensed water which was not proven. The probe shown in the video can only measure the heat but not the dry condition of the steam. It was claimed that a combined probe of the type HP474AC (Delta Ohm) was used but in the video a different probe, which looks like a SPC C45 0500 BEX - probe, can be seen. The throughput of water claimed at 29 mls/min. (= 17.5 liter/min) was doubted, too, as the pump used had only half of this capacity according to specification. It is obvious that a pump of the type "LMI J5" was used. The manufacturer gives a maximal flow of 7.6 liter/h.<ref>http://www.lmipumps.com/Files/lmi/Global/US-en/site_files/seriesj5.pdf</ref>

==Undocumented experiment on February 10, 2011==

==Undocumented experiment on February 10, 2011==

On February&nbsp;10, 2011 a further "internal test" of the „E-Cat“ was carried out in Bologna, attended by allegedly "independent" physics lecturer Guiseppe Levi from Bologna University. Several websites contend the test instead took place on February&nbsp;18, 2011. According to Guiseppe Levi's description, published in a Swedish online article titled ''"Cold Fusion: 18&nbsp;hour test excludes combustion"''<ref>Mats Lewan: ''Cold Fusion: 18&nbsp;hour test excludes combustion'', "nyteknik.se", article from February 23, 2011. [http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/energi_miljo/energi/article3108242.ece Text]</ref>, a hose connected the device to a water tap in order to cool the "reactor". Tap water was said to have flown through the device at about 1&nbsp;liter per second and was warmed by 5&nbsp;degrees. The test was said to have run continuously for 18&nbsp;hours, a water meter quantified the flow and was checked by video during the night. The "reactor" was allegedly heated up for 10&nbsp;minutes with 1,250&nbsp;Watts initially and subsequently, only a control unit continued to be supplied with 80&nbsp;Watts, while a constant thermic performance of 15 to 20 Kws allegedly was established. The same source quotes Levi with the remark he excluded "chemical energy sources" as heat source now:

On February&nbsp;10, 2011 a further "internal test" of the „E-Cat“ was carried out in Bologna, attended by allegedly "independent" physics lecturer Guiseppe Levi from Bologna University. Several websites contend the test instead took place on February&nbsp;18, 2011. According to Guiseppe Levi's description, published in a Swedish online article titled ''"Cold Fusion: 18&nbsp;hour test excludes combustion"''<ref>Mats Lewan: ''Cold Fusion: 18&nbsp;hour test excludes combustion'', "nyteknik.se", article from February 23, 2011. [http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/energi_miljo/energi/article3108242.ece Text]</ref>, a hose connected the device to a water tap in order to cool the "reactor". Tap water was said to have flown through the device at about 1&nbsp;liter per second and was warmed by 5&nbsp;degrees. The test was said to have run continuously for 18&nbsp;hours, a water meter quantified the flow and was checked by video during the night. The "reactor" was allegedly heated up for 10&nbsp;minutes with 1,250&nbsp;Watts initially and subsequently, only a control unit continued to be supplied with 80&nbsp;Watts, while an alleged constant thermal performance of 15 to 20 kW was established. The same source quotes Levi with the remark he excluded "chemical energy sources" as heat source now:

:''...Now that I have seen the device work for so many hours, in my view all chemical energy sources are excluded..''.  

:''...Now that I have seen the device work for so many hours, in my view all chemical energy sources are excluded..''.  

Levi et&nbsp;al. are expected to write another paper about this test. We will upload it when it becomes available. NyTeknik published a fascinating description of the latest experiment (in English). This includes new details, such as the fact that the power briefly peaked at 130&nbsp;kW. NyTeknik also published an interview with two outside experts about the demonstration: Prof. Emeritus at Uppsala University Sven Kullander, chairman of the National Academy of Sciences Energy Committee, and Hanno Essén, associate professor of theoretical physics, Swedish Royal Institute of Technology. Two versions are available, in English and Swedish.<br>LENR-CANR Org. News of February 2011. [http://lenr-canr.org/News.htm]</ref> Assuming an average output of 17 kW (the input of electrical energy for pre-heating and control may be neglected) over 18 hours actually renders about 300 kWh arithmetically speaking. The fuel value of 1 litre of oil is at about 10 kWh<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heating_oil</ref> so that in terms of figures, an amount of 30 litres may be calculated to produce the same heat quantity.

Levi et&nbsp;al. are expected to write another paper about this test. We will upload it when it becomes available. NyTeknik published a fascinating description of the latest experiment (in English). This includes new details, such as the fact that the power briefly peaked at 130&nbsp;kW. NyTeknik also published an interview with two outside experts about the demonstration: Prof. Emeritus at Uppsala University Sven Kullander, chairman of the National Academy of Sciences Energy Committee, and Hanno Essén, associate professor of theoretical physics, Swedish Royal Institute of Technology. Two versions are available, in English and Swedish.<br>LENR-CANR Org. News of February 2011. [http://lenr-canr.org/News.htm]</ref> Assuming an average output of 17 kW (the input of electrical energy for pre-heating and control may be neglected) over 18 hours actually renders about 300 kWh arithmetically speaking. The fuel value of 1 litre of oil is at about 10 kWh<ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heating_oil</ref> so that in terms of figures, an amount of 30 litres may be calculated to produce the same heat quantity.

For comparison: energy content of common energy sources. However, due to smoke formation, exhaust fumes, and toxicity (beryllium) their use is not feasible. The volume of the external control unit is said to be about 60 litres, but according to Levi contained only electronics. He estimated the actual reaction chamber at a volume of about 1 liter; the shielding is said to be a layer of 2 cms of lead with an overall weight of 30 kgs.

Since the volume of the visible devices can be estimatet, interested parties in the Internet(Usenet) tried to find candidates for a known chemical reaction which could be done in the given volume and produces enough heat while having no problems with smoke emission, toxicity, costs and controllability. While a normal chemical reaction can indeed not be ruled out for the first demonstration in January, a replacement candidate for the alleged 18 hour experiment in February could not be found. The volume of the external control unit is said to be about 60 litres, but according to Levi contained only electronics. He estimated the actual reaction chamber at a volume of about 1 liter; the shielding is said to be a layer of 2 cms of lead with an overall weight of 30 kgs.

==Attempts to replicate the experiments==

==Attempts to replicate the experiments==

The company EON&nbsp;srl (apparently owned by Rossi), often mentioned in connection with the subject, is registered both in Bondeno<ref>Eon&nbsp;S.r.l., V.&nbsp;C.ragazzi&nbsp;18, I-44012&nbsp;Bondeno</ref> and in Rome<ref>EON&nbsp;Srl, Via Ottaviano&nbsp;66, Roma</ref>. At the location of Bodeno, an "E-cat" device is said to have provided heating for premises virtually for free. Rossi also claims he is also producing hot water in his home with an E-cat. For both claims no independent evidence exists.

The company EON&nbsp;srl (apparently owned by Rossi), often mentioned in connection with the subject, is registered both in Bondeno<ref>Eon&nbsp;S.r.l., V.&nbsp;C.ragazzi&nbsp;18, I-44012&nbsp;Bondeno</ref> and in Rome<ref>EON&nbsp;Srl, Via Ottaviano&nbsp;66, Roma</ref>. At the location of Bodeno, an "E-cat" device is said to have provided heating for premises virtually for free. Rossi also claims he is also producing hot water in his home with an E-cat. For both claims no independent evidence exists.

In the course of 2011, inventors and undisclosed non-Italian investors plan to offer ready-made reactors for industrial application. There is an official permission dating from 2006 which enables Italian EON srl to operate a small power plant, fuelled by biodiesel, of an electric power of up to 1 megawatt in the town of Bondero. Inventors claim they currently also work at a small power plant which combines 120 interconnected energy-amplifier reactors of the same electric power of 1,000 kws either in Greece or in the USA which is supposed to be finished by October 2011 and cost 2 million dollar. Its manufacturer is a Greek company by the name of „Defkalion Green Technologies S.A.“.

In the course of 2011, inventors and undisclosed non-Italian investors(allegedly Greeks) plan to offer ready-made reactors for industrial application under the marketing name "Hyperion" (not to confuse with a concept for small fission reactors of the same name in the USA). There is an official permission dating from 2006 which enables Italian EON srl to operate a small power plant, fuelled by biodiesel, of an electric power of up to 1 megawatt in the town of Bondero. Inventors claim they currently also work at a small power plant which combines 120 interconnected energy-amplifier reactors of the same electric power of 1,000 kws either in Greece or in the USA which is supposed to be finished by October 2011 and cost 2 million dollar. Its manufacturer is a Greek company by the name of „Defkalion Green Technologies S.A.“.

   

   

There is a ''Leonardo Corporation''<ref>Leonardo Corporation, 116 South River Road, Bedford, N.H. 03110 - USA. Webseite: http://leonardocorp1996.com</ref> located in Bedford, New Hampshire, allegedly Rossi's employer. Their e-mail address is identical with the one of EON&nbsp;srl in Italy. This company and Greek Defkalion are supposed to build the future "reactors". Currently, Leonardo Corporation offers electric generators fueled by biodiesel (with turbo chargers and intercooling). The company claims a high degree of efficiency due to its patented "EON" technology which was able to recover incurred thermal losses.

There is a ''Leonardo Corporation''<ref>Leonardo Corporation, 116 South River Road, Bedford, N.H. 03110 - USA. Webseite: http://leonardocorp1996.com</ref> located in Bedford, New Hampshire, allegedly Rossi's employer. Their e-mail address is identical with the one of EON&nbsp;srl in Italy. This company and Greek Defkalion are supposed to build the future "reactors". Currently, Leonardo Corporation offers electric generators fueled by biodiesel (with turbo chargers and intercooling). The company claims a high degree of efficiency due to its patented "EON" technology which was able to recover incurred thermal losses.

==Patents and patent applications==

==Patents and patent applications==

[[image:Rossi_Focardi_Patent.jpg|thumb|Drawing from patent application WO&nbsp;2009/125444 von Rossi]]

[[image:Rossi_Focardi_Patent.jpg|thumb|Drawing from patent application WO&nbsp;2009/125444 von Rossi]]

Rossi has applied for a patent for the method.<ref>WO 2009/125444 A1: METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CARRYING OUT NICKEL AND HYDROGEN EXOTHERMAL REACTIONS. Applicant: Pascucci, Maddalena. Inventor: Rossi, Andrea. Date: 15.10.2009</ref><ref>EP 02259998 A1: VERFAHREN UND VORRICHTUNG ZUR DURCHFÜHRUNG VON EXOTHERMEN REAKTIONEN ZWISCHEN NICKEL UND WASSERSTOFF. Applicant: Pascucci, Maddalena. Inventor: Rossi, Andrea. Date: 15.12.2010</ref> The European Patent Office as one of the International Searching Authorities of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) dismissed the patent specification. It criticized the invention was not presented comprehensively and particularly that it was not evident that the described reaction of nickel and hydrogen did in fact generate energy. To quote the report:

Rossi has applied for a patent for the method.<ref>WO 2009/125444 A1: METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CARRYING OUT NICKEL AND HYDROGEN EXOTHERMAL REACTIONS. Applicant: Pascucci, Maddalena. Inventor: Rossi, Andrea. Date: 15.10.2009</ref><ref>EP 02259998 A1: VERFAHREN UND VORRICHTUNG ZUR DURCHFÜHRUNG VON EXOTHERMEN REAKTIONEN ZWISCHEN NICKEL UND WASSERSTOFF. Applicant: Pascucci, Maddalena. Inventor: Rossi, Andrea. Date: 15.12.2010</ref> The European Patent Office as one of the International Searching Authorities of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) assessed the patent specification negatively. It criticized the invention was not presented comprehensively and particularly that it was not evident that the described reaction of nickel and hydrogen did in fact generate energy. To quote the report:

:''As the invention seems, at least at first, to offend against the generally accepted laws of physics and established theories, the disclosure should be detailed enough to prove to a skilled person conversant with mainstream science and technology that the invention is indeed feasible.'' [...] ''In the present case, the invention does not provide experimental evidence (nor any firm theoretical basis) which would enable the skilled person to assess the viability of the invention. The description is essentially based on general statement and speculations which are not apt to provide a clear and exhaustive technical teaching.''<ref>http://www.wipo.int/pctdb/en/wads.jsp?IA=IT2008000532&LANGUAGE=EN&ID=id00000011868762&VOL=100&DOC=075642&WO=09/125444&WEEK=NA&TYPE=NA&DOC_TYPE=WOSA&TOK=Q309-A-eI6srxLYw7s9qWfbp73Y&PAGE=1</ref>

:''As the invention seems, at least at first, to offend against the generally accepted laws of physics and established theories, the disclosure should be detailed enough to prove to a skilled person conversant with mainstream science and technology that the invention is indeed feasible.'' [...] ''In the present case, the invention does not provide experimental evidence (nor any firm theoretical basis) which would enable the skilled person to assess the viability of the invention. The description is essentially based on general statement and speculations which are not apt to provide a clear and exhaustive technical teaching.''<ref>http://www.wipo.int/pctdb/en/wads.jsp?IA=IT2008000532&LANGUAGE=EN&ID=id00000011868762&VOL=100&DOC=075642&WO=09/125444&WEEK=NA&TYPE=NA&DOC_TYPE=WOSA&TOK=Q309-A-eI6srxLYw7s9qWfbp73Y&PAGE=1</ref>

*Franco, Foresta Martin, "Siena scopre l' energia pulita Fusione fredda all' italiana?," Corriere Della Sera, 19. Februar 1994

*Franco, Foresta Martin, "Siena scopre l' energia pulita Fusione fredda all' italiana?," Corriere Della Sera, 19. Februar 1994

*Ilaria Venturi: ''Fusione nucleare a freddo - "A Bologna ci siamo riusciti", Artikel in "La Repubblica" (Bologna-Lokalausgabe) vom 14.1.2011. [http://bologna.repubblica.it/cronaca/2011/01/14/news/fusione_nucleare_a_freddo_a_bologna_ci_siamo_riusciti-11237521/]

*Ilaria Venturi: ''Fusione nucleare a freddo - "A Bologna ci siamo riusciti", Artikel in "La Repubblica" (Bologna-Lokalausgabe) vom 14.1.2011. [http://bologna.repubblica.it/cronaca/2011/01/14/news/fusione_nucleare_a_freddo_a_bologna_ci_siamo_riusciti-11237521/]

*[http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-01-italian-scientists-cold-fusion-video.html Lisa Zyga: ''Italian scientists claim to have demonstrated cold fusion'', physorg, 20.1.2011]

*[http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-01-italian-scientists-cold-fusion-video.html Lisa Zyga: ''Italian scientists claim to have demonstrated cold fusion'', physorg, 20.1.2011]

*[http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/01/24/italian-scientists-claim-cold-fusion-breakthrough/#ixzz1HFDdqNuC Clay Dillow: ''Italian Scientists Claim (Dubious) Cold Fusion Breakthrough'', Fox News, 24.1.2011]

*[http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/01/24/italian-scientists-claim-cold-fusion-breakthrough/#ixzz1HFDdqNuC Clay Dillow: ''Italian Scientists Claim (Dubious) Cold Fusion Breakthrough'', Fox News, 24.1.2011]