Will electronics be powered by ‘nuclear’ batteries one day? Their lifespan can be up to 50 years – Technologies – Science and technology

The Chinese company Betavolt boasted a prototype of a nuclear battery that can power small electronics continuously for up to 50 years. Does it also shine with a smartphone and a watch for better times?

Betavolt nuclear battery prototype.

Imagine never having to charge your cell phone again. Nor are watches, headphones and other consumer electronics. Music of the future? Perhaps. However, Chinese startup Betavolt is bringing this idea closer to reality. Not long ago, the company boasted a functional prototype of a so-called nuclear battery that could power electronics continuously for up to a record 50 years. Without charging or changing cells. In addition, the battery should be very safe and, thanks to the special use of materials that are safe for human health and the environment, there should be no risk of radiation leakage.

Betavolt batteries use the beta decay of radioactive isotopes to generate electricity. When isotopes decay, unstable atoms emit beta particles (high-speed electrons). These beta particles are captured by special materials that convert the kinetic energy of the moving particles into electrical energy. Semiconductors are used to trap beta particles and convert their energy into electricity.

The first battery prototype can deliver power at the level of 100 microwatts with a voltage of 3 Volts. The battery has dimensions of 15 × 15 × 5 millimeters. Betavolt has bold plans and wants to introduce a 1 watt battery to the world next year. Thanks to the small dimensions, it will be possible to connect such batteries, which would mean that several cells with a power of 1 watt would already be able to power a mobile phone. According to Betavolt, such batteries will work without problems even in extreme conditions with temperatures from -60 to 120 degrees Celsius.

Nuclear batteries will not replace current Li-Ion batteries in the next few years. Companies like Betavolt will first have to deal with design and performance issues and convince both the professional and lay public that such batteries are completely safe. Cost is also a problem, as one gram of the isotope used can cost thousands of dollars.