Chinese startup Betavolt presented Nuclear battery produces power for 50 years without needing to charge / Independent The BV100 nuclear battery, which can generate electricity for 50 years without the need for charging and maintenance.
63 nuclear isotopes were placed in a module smaller than a coin (15 x 15 x 5 mm). As a result, the miniature battery can produce 100 microwatts of electricity and a voltage of 3 V, and is also capable of operating at temperatures from -60°C to 120 °C. With all this, it is absolutely safe, the developers assure. The multi-layered design eliminates fires and explosions from external influences.
Nuclear batteries are environmentally friendly. After a period of decay, Nickel-63 turns into stable copper isotopes that do not harm the environment.
The battery is currently undergoing pilot tests. After that, the startup expects to start mass production for use in various equipment, including smartphones and drones.
They are also suitable for the aerospace industry, artificial intelligence equipment, medical devices and microprocessors.
The technology implemented in the battery is used in the construction of spacecraft and underwater systems. But the production of thermonuclear batteries has so far been considered too expensive. American and European research institutes are also working in this direction.
By 2025, Betavolt plans to release a 1 Watt battery. The company is confident that their invention will allow China to gain an advantage in the coming era of AI.
