18/02/2025
A battery that can last thousands of years… encased in a diamond? That’s what scientists and engineers from the UK Atomic Energy Authority and the University of Bristol recently developed using the radioactive isotope carbon-14. This first nuclear-powered battery of its kind offers the potential to power devices for thousands of years.
Why did the scientists use diamonds? Their physical attributes and durability make diamonds an ideal housing for a radioactive source, ensuring that radiation doesn’t escape and making the batteries safe to use. Unlike conventional cell batteries that last only a few months, carbon-14 batteries are projected to retain 50% of their capacity even after 5,000 years.
This technology has a range of potential applications, including medical devices like pacemakers, hearing aids and implants. It can also be used in extreme environments, both on Earth and in space.
More from UKAEA: https://bit.ly/3Cnf5Ib
