Coherence dynamics in low-energy nuclear fusion

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel quantum dynamical approach to low-energy nuclear fusion, combining density matrix methods with energy projection to accurately calculate fusion probabilities and analyze quantum coherence effects.

Contribution

It is the first to integrate a dynamical coupled-channels density matrix method with an energy projection technique for energy-resolved fusion calculations.

Findings

Fusion probabilities match stationary Schrödinger calculations.

Quantum decoherence does not impact fusion probability.

The method enables quantum thermodynamic analysis of fusion processes.

Abstract

Low-energy nuclear fusion reactions have been described using a dynamical coupled-channels density matrix method, based on the theory of open quantum systems. For the first time, this has been combined with an energy projection method, permitting the calculation of energy resolved fusion probabilities. The results are benchmarked against calculations using stationary Schr\"odinger dynamics and show excellent agreement. Calculations of entropy, energy dissipation and coherence were conducted, demonstrating the capability of this method. It is evident that the presence of quantum decoherence does not affect fusion probability. This framework provides a basis for quantum thermodynamic studies using thermal environments.