Recent Papers

All observable matter in the universe is composed of atoms, with electrons orbiting nuclei as the fundamental arrangement. Yet, modern advancements in nuclear and astrophysical research compel us to consider more exotic configurations of matter beyond atomic structures. This study explores the theoretical existence of a nuclear latticea material or ordered structure formed exclusively by tightly bound nuclei interacting through strong nuclear forces, rather than conventional electronic bonds. Unlike atomic lattices, such a nuclear lattice would exhibit unprecedented density, physical properties, and stability challenges. While no such material exists naturally on Earth, astrophysical observations suggest analogous phenomena, particularly the nuclear pasta phases in neutron star crusts, where dense nuclear matter organizes into lasagna- or spaghetti-like geometries.This work examines nuclear lattices across one-, two-, and three-dimensional orientations, analyzing their geometry, stability, response to radiation, and wave propagation. Potential implications span multiple domains: (i) super-nuclear conduction, where aligned nuclei could allow novel particle or charge transport; (ii) zero-resistance systems, speculatively leading to superconductivity at extreme densities; and (iii) nuclear-spinbased quantum computing, leveraging stable nuclear arrays for quantum information storage and processing. From an energy perspective, nuclear lattices might enable controlled fusion fuel pathways, minimizing reaction chaos, and thus offer a cleaner, safer alternative energy source. Additionally, their ability to transmute unstable isotopes could revolutionize nuclear waste management.Beyond energy and computation, nuclear lattices hold promise in material science and medicine. Their ultra-dense and ultra-strong nature may yield construction materials surpassing steel in strength while remaining lightweight. Their exceptional density could serve as radiation shielding against cosmic rays for deep-space exploration, while controlled radiation release might provide targeted therapies for cancer. On a fundamental scale, investigating nuclear lattice structures could enhance our understanding of spacetime curvature under extreme mass-energy densities and even enable the synthesis of novel stable isotopes.Though currently beyond technological realization due to inherent instability without electronic binding, the theoretical framework presented here outlines the transformative potential of nuclear lattices, bridging astrophysics, quantum mechanics, nuclear engineering, and material science.

Copyright © 2025 Saheb Kohli. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.