A Chinese agency has developed a groundbreaking nuclear battery the size of a coin that could last up to 50 years without recharging or maintenance.
Beijing Betavolt New energy generation these days started with mass production of its BV100 battery, which runs on nickel-63—a radioactive isotope that decays into strong copper. The battery uses diamond semiconductor layers to convert radioactive decay into electricity securely.
It promises 100 microwatts at 3 volts and is designed to be combined in a collection or parallel for more power output. Though not strong enough for excessive-strength devices like smartphones, Betavolt plans to launch a one-watt version later this year for use in drones, medical devices, and military tech.
The BV100 marks the first nuclear battery to use China’s fourth-generation diamond semiconductor technology. It boasts over 10 times the strength density of lithium batteries and may operate in extreme temperatures from -60°C to 120°C.
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In contrast to older nuclear batteries developed for the duration of the Cold War, the BV100 doesn’t require high internal temperatures and poses no fire or explosion risk.
Betavolt’s innovation has drawn global attention. The organization has secured patents in China and is filing across the world. Competing corporations in the U.S., United Kingdom, and China are also racing to improve betavoltaic battery technology for long-lasting, compact energy answers.