A Betavolt battery is a nuclear battery that uses a radioactive isotope of nickel to generate electricity. The battery is made of layers of nickel sandwiched between diamond plates. How it works The nickel-63 isotope decays, releasing beta particles, or high-speed electrons The electrons hit the diamond plates, which act as semiconductors The electrons separate from the atomic nuclei in the semiconductor The separation of the electron-hole pairs generates an electric current Benefits Lightweight Long service life High energy density Can work in extreme temperatures Modular design allows multiple batteries to be connected for more power Safe, with no external radiation Environmentally friendly Potential uses Mobile phones that never need to be charged Drones that can fly forever Medical devices such as pacemakers, artificial hearts, and cochleas Voir plus