Betavolt, a Chinese business, has revealed the development of a new battery that can power cellphones for an amazing 50 years without needing to be recharged. This nuclear battery, dubbed the world’s first miniature atomic energy system, uses 63 radioactive isotopes that are compactly organized within a module smaller than a coin.
The technique works by turning the energy generated by decaying isotopes into electricity, an idea first proposed in the twentieth century and now implemented by Betavolt. The business has begun pilot testing and plans to mass-produce the battery for a variety of commercial uses, such as cellphones and drones.
According to a company press release, “Our atomic energy batteries can provide enduring power in diverse scenarios, such as aerospace, AI equipment, medical devices, microprocessors, advanced sensors, small drones, and micro-robots.” They expect that this energy breakthrough will help China compete in the emerging era of AI technology.
Additionally, the battery’s construction ensures safety. Betavolt says that its multilayer structure keeps the battery from catching fire or exploding when subjected to abrupt force. Furthermore, the battery can work in a wide temperature range, from -60 to 120 degrees Celsius.
Radiation issues.
One issue with nuclear energy is radiation. However, Betavolt guarantees users that its battery is safe and free of external radiation. They believe it is appropriate for use in medical equipment within the human body, such as pacemakers and cochlear implants. Following the decay phase, the 63 isotopes combine to form a stable, non-radioactive isotope of copper that poses no environmental concern or contamination.
Notably, the BV100 battery produced by Betavolt is more secure than traditional batteries. It will not catch fire or explode if pierced or exposed to high temperatures, making it a safer choice.
Scientists have long sought to create tiny nuclear batteries. The Soviet Union and the United States had previously investigated this technology for application in spacecraft, underwater systems, and remote scientific stations. However, these batteries were pricey.
This groundbreaking technology has the potential to transform electronics by eliminating the need for charges and portable power banks. In contrast to typical Li-ion batteries, devices powered by these nuclear batteries could function constantly without decrease in capacity or longevity. Consider drones that can fly continuously, phones that never need to be charged, and electric vehicles that do not require frequent recharging.
The future looks bright with Betavolt’s nuclear battery, which provides an endless power supply while also altering how we use and perceive modern products.