Unified Phonon-coupled Su(n) Models for Anomalies in Metal Deuterides

We present a systematic, but abbreviated, account of issues and models for anomalies in metal deuterides. To interact, deuterons must get close to one another, and we consider conditions under which this occurs and the ramifications. Within the general picture under discussion, anomalies are ultimately a consequence of phonon exchange that occurs when nuclear reactions take place in the solid state. We review the generalization of the resonating group method for reactions in vacuum to include solid state effects, and discuss implications for experiment. Phonon exchange in the case of a much simplified scalar Gaussian nuclear model is reviewed. The coupling of reactions at different sites is explored, and connections are made with recent experiments on alpha emission. The fastest site-other-site reactions are null reactions in which fusion reactions and their inverses are coupled. A consideration of these processes leads to the conclusion that compact states should be present stabilized by phonon exchange, and that these may be responsible for anomalies in recent beam experiments with metal deuterides. Energy exchange between nuclei and the lattice can be very efficient, according to results from idealized models for null reactions involving many sites. Aspects of excess heat production and other effects appear to be addressed by the new models.