Atomic batteries: Powering gadgets for 50 years, safely

Betavolt Technology, based in Beijing, is developing a miniature atomic battery known as a betavoltaic battery. The firm’s representatives are confident that in the future, this technology will be applied in a variety of electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets. This groundbreaking battery is expected to enable devices to operate for up to 50 years without needing to be charged.

The first prototype is a battery named BV100, which generates a voltage of 3 V and is extremely small — smaller than a coin. Its dimensions are approximately 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.5 cm, and it delivers 100 microwatts of energy through the decay of radioactive material. The specific solution involves the decay of a nickel isotope, making it safe as it does not emit harmful radiation or produce dangerous chemicals.

Plans indicate that by 2025, the battery's power will be increased to 1 W. According to the creators, this technology can be used in a series of configurations to adjust power levels to meet the demands of modern devices. The prototype was presented as ready for mass production, as reported by Android Central.

Although the concept of miniaturizing atomic energy is not new, it has not been used in consumer electronics so far due to risks associated with radioactive materials like plutonium. However, Betavolt engineers emphasize that their solution is safe because it uses a nickel isotope and a diamond semiconductor. The slow decay of nickel-63 into copper ensures stability and safety.

Thanks to its layered design, the battery is resistant to self-ignition and explosion, and it can also operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -60 to 120 degrees Celsius. This definitely surpasses the capabilities of today's batteries used in electronics.