In a collaborative study of the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), researchers and engineers have developed the first Carbon-14 diamond battery, with a potential lifespan of thousands of years.
This new type of battery uses a radioactive isotope, Carbon-14, to produce a diamond battery. The study considers the battery as an incredibly long-lasting energy source, powering devices for thousands of years.
Since the half-life of carbon-14 is 5,700 years, this diamond battery uses the radioactive decay of carbon-14 to generate low levels of power. It works on a similar basis as solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity. But instead of light, it captures fast-moving electrons from within the diamond structure.
This new discovery has game-changing potential in various applications. For instance, diamond batteries can be used in medical devices like ocular implants, hearing aids, and pacemakers. This could minimize the need for replacements and distress to patients.
Additionally, diamond batteries could find their way into space programs, where replacing conventional batteries is inconvenient. This battery could also power active radio frequency (RF) tags to identify and track devices on Earth or in space.
“Our micropower technology can support a whole range of important applications from space technologies and security devices through to medical implants. We’re excited to be able to explore all of these possibilities, working with partners in industry and research, over the next few years,” says Professor Tom Scott.
“Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that uses a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14,” said Sarah Clark.
The development of the Carbon-14 diamond battery is a result of UKAEA’s work on fusion energy. For reference, heating a mix of two forms of hydrogen (deuterium and tritium) forms a controlled plasma which is 10 times hotter than the core of the Sun.
When they fuse, they release energy, which can be harnessed as electricity. UKAEA is working on using strong magnets in a ring-shaped machine called a ‘tokamak,’ to capture heat for generating electricity.
