Photovoltaic nuclear battery

What is a radiophotovoltaic micronuclear battery?

By combining this new design with a photovoltaic cell to convert autoluminescence into electricity, the radiophotovoltaic micronuclear battery achieves a power conversion efficiency of 0.889%, delivering 139 microwatts per curie. Although the power output remains tiny, the potential for a long-term, maintenance-free energy supply is considerable.

How does a nuclear battery work?

This innovative battery uses americium, a radioactive element, to generate energy through the emission of alpha particles. Americium was embedded within a special crystal, converting its energy into a usable form. (Representational image) Researchers have created a nuclear battery with unprecedented efficiency: 8,000 times more efficient.

What is a nuclear battery?

Nuclear batteries (NBs) 1, which convert energy from radiation sources into electricity appeal to above applications due to their extremely long working lifetime and high stability against harsh conditions.

How efficient are nuclear batteries?

While some prototypes have been assembled and even used in space missions, they were not very efficient. Now Shuao Wang at Soochow University in China and his colleagues have improved the efficiency of a nuclear battery design by a factor of 8000.

What is the power conversion efficiency of a radiophotovoltaic micronuclear battery?

When implemented in conjunction with a photovoltaic cell that translates autoluminescence into electricity, a new type of radiophotovoltaic micronuclear battery with a total power conversion efficiency of 0.889% and a power per activity of 139 microwatts per curie (μW Ci −1) is obtained.

Are betavoltaic batteries the future of energy storage?

Gain new perspectives for faster progress directly to your inbox. Betavoltaic batteries are a game-changer for energy storage, but there are obstacles before these nuclear sources are applied in everyday life.