Researchers from the University of Bristol and the British Atomic Energy Agency have developed a unique diamond battery created on the basis of the radioactive isotope carbon-14.
The new energy source is capable of operating for thousands of years, opening perspectives for a multitude of applications.
The battery uses the radioactive decay of carbon-14, an isotope known for its use in radiocarbon analysis. The diamond structure captures the fast electrons released by the decay and converts them into electricity – similar to how solar panels convert light into energy.
The development of the battery became possible thanks to the application of technologies developed in the framework of research in the field of thermonuclear fusion. Scientists have also created a special facility for creating diamonds, they report Noi.md with reference to .
One of the most promising fields for the use of new energy sources is medicine.
These batteries can power biocompatible devices such as eye implants, hearing aids and pacemakers, minimizing the need to replace them and reducing the burden on patients.
