Nuclear battery powered by nickel-63 isotopes with single-crystal diamond technology

a nuclear battery that can last 50 years without needing to be recharged. The battery is powered by the radioactive decay of nickel-63 isotopes. How it works The battery uses a single-crystal diamond semiconductor. Beta particles from the isotopes collide with the semiconductor's atoms, creating electron-hole pairs. The electric field in the depletion region separates the pairs, creating a current. The current can be used to power a load device. Potential applications Aerospace devices, Medical pacemakers, Sensors, Micro-robots, and Small drones. Safety considerations The radioisotopes pose little danger if used in space, but need shielding if used in devices like pacemakers or smartphones. The type and amount of shielding needs to match the radioactive element used. Other nuclear battery developments The UK Atomic Energy Authority and the University of Bristol have developed a carbon-14 diamond battery that could be used in medical devices Ver más