Betavolt, a Chinese battery manufacturer, has commenced mass production of the BV100, an innovative coin-sized battery that operates using nuclear energy.
Recent years have witnessed remarkable progress in battery technology, resulting in advancements such as Sodium-ion cells in power banks. While contemporary batteries typically offer extended lifespans, the idea of a battery lasting over a decade on a single charge may seem like something out of a science fiction narrative. However, this concept is on the verge of becoming a reality.
As reported by Popular Mechanics, Betavolt has unveiled the BV100, a compact nuclear-powered battery utilizing Nickel-63 as its radioactive energy source, capable of lasting up to 50 years on a single charge. Although its energy output is relatively low and insufficient for charging smartphones or cameras, the BV100 is already being mass-produced for powering electronics, including medical devices and aerospace applications.
So, how does Betavolt’s BV100 nuclear battery operate? The BV100 generates a power output of 100 microwatts at 3 volts, with plans to release a one-watt version later this year, suitable for consumer electronics and extending the flight duration of drones.
The structure of the BV100 consists of two main components: a radioactive emitter and a semiconductor absorber. The emitter gradually decays, emitting high-speed electrons that collide with the absorber, creating an “electron-hole” pair, which produces a small, yet stable supply of electrical energy. To ensure safety, the company uses a thin sheet of aluminum to prevent harmful beta particles from escaping.
While the energy output is not comparable to that of conventional batteries, this small current can sustain low-energy electronics for a century or longer. Although these nuclear batteries may not replace those found in smartphones, they are ideal for applications such as planetary rovers, underwater sensors, and potentially even pacemakers.
In comparison to standard Lithium-ion batteries, the BV100 boasts ten times the energy density and can operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -60 to +120 degrees Celsius without the risk of combustion or explosion. Betavolt claims that the BV100 is environmentally friendly, as the radioactive Nickel-63 core eventually decays into stable copper, making it cost-effective to recycle compared to most chemical batteries.
The introduction of Betavolt’s BV100 represents a significant advancement in battery technology, as this compact nuclear-powered cell requires no maintenance. Additionally, its modular design allows for scalability, enabling multiple cells to be easily combined in series or parallel to form larger battery systems.
