Scientists unveil a revolutionary new battery technology that could power devices for thousands of years.
A team of researchers from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have made a groundbreaking discovery: the carbon-14 diamond battery. This power source has the potential to revolutionize various industries, from medicine to space exploration.
The battery harnesses the power of radioactive decay. Carbon-14, a radioactive isotope commonly used in radiocarbon dating, is encased in a diamond structure. As it decays, it releases fast-moving electrons, which are captured by the diamond to generate electricity. This process is similar to how solar cells work, but instead of using sunlight, it relies on the energy from radioactive decay.
Carbon-14 has a half-life of 5,700 years, meaning a carbon-14 diamond battery could theoretically power a device for thousands of years. This makes it ideal for applications where battery replacement is difficult or impossible, such as medical implants or space exploration missions.
This breakthrough in battery technology has the potential to transform various industries and open up new possibilities for innovation. As research and development continue, expect to see more advancements in this field.
