Gold-producing Fusion Reactors, as claimed by Marathon Fusion
In the heart of Silicon Valley, Marathon Fusion, a groundbreaking start-up, has unveiled a potentially transformative nuclear fusion-based technology. The technology, if proven successful, could generate large quantities of gold as a byproduct of fusion power plants, offering significant economic benefits [1][2][3][4].
The proposed method involves the conversion of mercury-198 into stable gold-197 using high-energy neutrons produced in fusion reactors. This process, as claimed by Marathon Fusion, would not interfere with the primary function of clean energy output, effectively doubling the economic value of fusion plants [1][2][3][4].
If validated, this innovation could trigger an economic transformation of the fusion industry by creating a valuable co-product alongside electricity, making fusion power plants more economically attractive [2][3][4]. Marathon Fusion also envisions expanding the transmutation process to produce other precious metals and medically useful isotopes or materials for nuclear batteries [2].
However, it's important to note that the technology remains unproven, as the scientific paper describing the method is yet to undergo peer review [1][3][4]. Expert reactions have been cautiously optimistic but emphasize the need for further validation through peer-reviewed studies and experimental demonstration [1].
One potential challenge is the radioactivity associated with some of the gold produced, requiring up to 18 years of secure storage before it can be deemed safe for commercial use [1][2][4].
The Marathon Fusion team, which includes Adam Rutkowski, a former engineer at SpaceX, and Eric Schmidt, former Google CEO, plans to conduct real-world testing of their gold production theory and have their study peer reviewed [1]. If successful, this innovation could rewrite the narrative of the nuclear power industry, drawing parallels to the alchemical quest for gold that once laid the foundation of modern science and chemistry.
[1] Marathon Fusion Press Release, July 2025 [2] Science Daily, July 2025 [3] New York Times, July 2025 [4] BBC News, July 2025
- The fusion industry could witness an economic transformation, as a fusion-based technology, if successful, could produce gold as a byproduct, increasing the economic value of fusion plants and potentially making them more appealing.
- Marathon Fusion's research extends beyond gold production, with ambitions to transmutate other precious metals and medically useful isotopes or materials for nuclear batteries.
- Any gold produced through the proposed Marathon Fusion technology would require secure storage for up to 18 years before it can be deemed safe for commercial use due to associated radioactivity.
