Archive · 28 Jul 2025
US Startup Claims Fusion Can Create 5,000 Kg of Gold Annually
A company is claiming they can make gold from mercury using a special machine called a nuclear fusion reactor.
This reactor, similar to what powers the sun, can change mercury into gold.
However, the gold might be slightly radioactive at first, so it needs to be stored for a long time to make it safe.
The process could also produce lots of clean energy!
The company has received money to help them develop this fusion technology, though the idea of making gold this way is still developing.
Marathon Fusion claims to have discovered a method to convert mercury into gold using nuclear fusion.
The process involves using a fusion reactor to transform mercury into gold-197.
A fusion power plant could potentially produce 5,000 kg of gold per year per gigawatt of thermal power.
The produced gold may be partially radioactive and require 14-18 years of storage for safety.
Marathon Fusion has raised approximately $6 million in investments and $4 million in government grants.
- Who
- Marathon Fusion, a US startup.
- What
- A US startup claims to have found a method to convert mercury into gold via nuclear fusion.
- When
- The claim is current, with potential future production estimates.
- Where
- San Francisco, USA.
- Why
- To create a new revenue stream by producing gold as a byproduct of fusion energy generation.
Skeptical View
Optimistic View
Viability of the claim
Skeptical View
The technology's commercial viability is uncertain. Without further development, it may remain a concept.
Optimistic View
The potential for a novel revenue stream has been identified and steps for developing the idea has been put in place.
- Company
- Marathon Fusion
- Location
- San Francisco, USA
- Process
- Nuclear fusion to convert mercury to gold
- Gold Production Estimate
- 5,000 kg per GW of thermal power per year
- Investment
- $6 million (approximate)
- Government Grants
- $4 million (approximate)
- Radiation Safety
- Gold needs 14-18 years storage