Diamond Batteries Powered by Carbon-14 Could Last Thousands of Years

Scientists and engineers from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have successfully created the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery with the potential to power devices for thousands of years.

Several game-changing applications are possible. Bio-compatible diamond batteries can be used in medical devices, such as ocular implants, hearing aids and pacemakers, minimizing the need for replacements and distress to patients.

The batteries could power active radio frequency (RF) tags where there is a need to identify and track devices either on earth or in space, such as spacecraft or payloads, for decades at a time, thus reducing costs and extending operational lifespan.

The battery leverages the radioactive isotope, carbon-14, known for its use in radiocarbon dating, to produce a diamond battery.

The carbon-14 diamond battery works by using the radioactive decay of carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years, to generate low levels of power. It functions similarly to solar panels, which convert light into electricity, but instead of using light particles (photons), they capture fast-moving electrons from within the diamond structure.

“Our micropower technology can support a whole range of important applications from space technologies and security devices through to medical implants," commented Tom Scott, Professor in Materials at the University of Bristol. "We're excited to be able to explore all of these possibilities, working with partners in industry and research, over the next few years.”

Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA, described how diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power.

"They are an emerging technology that use a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14,” she said.

Fatimah Sanni, a Senior Process Engineer at UKAEA, told gizmodo.com that researchers can imagine a future in which diamond batteries are used in almost everything. She listed small satellites, computer chips, remote controls and wrist watches as some day-to-day examples.

Diamond batteries, which have no moving parts and require no maintenance, could potentially replace lithium ion batteries, which are taxing on the environment.

Credits: Diamond battery and diamond battery team images courtesy of University of Bristol.