Re: Re: [] Re: Thoraited Tungsten Rods

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: Mike <megavolts61@xxxxxxxxx>

I don't know of any term like that, but alpha particles are very 
ionizing(an alpha source, Americium 241  is used in smoke detectors 
for that very reason).  An alpha particle steals two electrons from 
the air and ionizes the air...making it conductive....more so than 
normal air.  Jim Lux mention a triggering system using, most likely 
nickel 63.  It is a beta emitter, so in that case, you have free 
electrons buzzing about.  It would likely be a better choice for the 
tungsten, except it is not naturally occuring so very 
expensive.  Thorium is relatively abundant and cheap
Mike


Original poster: "Teslacoil Workshop" <workshop@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>

The addition of thorium dioxide does not increase the conductivity of
tungsten. Thorium is added to make the arc easier to start and maintain
because it is a particle emitter. Perhaps someone can jump in with the
scientific word for the radioactive arc starting property... I thought
it
was called "preessence" or something like that.

Jeff


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