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Carbon-14 diamond battery capable of generating power for over 5,700 years is world first, say UK scientists
May 9, 2025/
Scientists at the UK Atomic Energy Authority and Bristol University have created what they say is the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery, which has the potential to power devices for thousands of years.
Scientists from the UK Atomic Energy Authority and the University of Bristol have developed the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery, capable of generating power for over 5,700 years. This groundbreaking technology harnesses energy from the radioactive decay of carbon-14, an isotope extracted from nuclear waste graphite blocks. The carbon-14 is encapsulated within synthetic diamonds, which safely contain the radiation while converting the emitted electrons into a steady electrical current.
Functioning similarly to a solar panel—but using electrons instead of photons—this battery offers a continuous, maintenance-free power source. Its extreme longevity and reliability make it ideal for powering space missions, remote sensors, and medical devices like pacemakers, where battery replacement is difficult or impossible.
In addition to its performance, the diamond battery provides a sustainable solution to nuclear waste by repurposing radioactive material that would otherwise require secure storage for thousands of years. This innovation is a major leap forward in both clean energy technology and environmental responsibility.
Many thanks to Burt C. for sharing
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A carbon-14 diamond battery is a type of battery that uses the radioactive decay of carbon-14 to generate electricity, encased within a diamond for safety. This innovative battery technology offers the potential for long-lasting, low-power electricity generation, making it suitable for a variety of applications, says the University of Bristol.
How it works:
- Carbon-14, a radioactive isotope, decays over time, releasing fast-moving electrons (beta particles).
- These electrons, when they interact with a semiconductor material, create electricity, explains YouTube.
- The diamond structure provides a safe and stable enclosure for the carbon-14, preventing radiation from escaping.
- The battery functions like a solar panel, but instead of capturing light, it captures radiation.
Potential applications:
- Medical devices: Long-lasting power for pacemakers, hearing aids, and other implants.
- Space exploration: Power for spacecraft systems and instruments in long-duration missions.
- Remote and extreme environments: Power for devices in remote locations or harsh conditions where maintenance is difficult.
- IoT devices: Powering sensors and devices that require minimal maintenance.
- Defense and security: Powering military equipment and surveillance systems in isolated areas.
Benefits:
- Long lifespan:Carbon-14 has a half-life of 5,700 years, meaning the battery can last for millennia.
- Low power output:While the power output is relatively low (microwatts), it can be sufficient for many applications.
- Safe and sustainable:The diamond casing ensures safety, and the use of carbon-14 can potentially address nuclear waste issues, according to Sustainability Magazine.
Drawbacks:
- High cost: The initial cost of developing and manufacturing these batteries is high.
- Low power: The power output is relatively low, limiting its applications.
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