Nuclear batteries produced by two American companies, Kronos Advanced Technologies and Yasheng Group, can operate continuously for decades without needing a recharge.
The two companies have collaborated to develop a type of small nuclear battery called Nickel 63 to bridge the gap with China, as reported by Interesting Engineering on August 13. According to the announcement from Kronos Advanced Technologies and Yasheng Group, the new nuclear battery can function for up to 50 years without a charge, addressing the urgent energy storage needs in various sectors, including medical devices, remote sensors, space exploration, and military applications.
Small nuclear battery the size of a coin from China. (Photo: New Atlas).
This announcement comes a few months after a Chinese startup named Betavolt introduced the BV100 nuclear battery, which is also the size of a coin. This battery is currently in the pilot phase and undergoing rigorous testing to ensure it meets all requirements while functioning as intended. Therefore, the collaboration between Kronos Advanced Technologies and Yasheng Group aims to provide a domestically produced nuclear battery option in the U.S. to compete with the Chinese product.
Nuclear batteries operate by converting radioactive isotopes into electrical energy through the process of decay. Experts believe that these batteries can last for decades, offering a long-term energy storage solution. Additionally, they can generate significant energy while minimizing waste due to the decay of radioactive materials. The energy derived from nuclear batteries does not rely on chain reactions as in nuclear power plants.
Experts suggest that ultra-light and long-lasting nuclear batteries could be developed for various applications. For instance, Nickel-63 batteries could power implantable medical devices such as pacemakers, artificial hearts, and cochlear implants. Their long lifespan, reliability, and safety make them ideal for medical applications where frequent battery replacements are not feasible.
Moreover, the aerospace and defense sectors could utilize this new battery technology for long-duration space flights and critical missions. There is also significant potential for applications in remote sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices that require maintenance-free power sources. The extended operational life ensures continuous monitoring of sensors placed in remote locations. A major field that could be permanently transformed by the use of nuclear batteries is consumer electronics. If used in devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and various tech gadgets, nuclear batteries could enable these devices to operate continuously for decades without the need for frequent charging.
Nuclear batteries have several key features that make them safe and appealing to customers. According to the two companies, their batteries will collect and convert beta particles into electrical energy using semiconductor materials. They also feature a robust casing that prevents radiation leaks, ensuring safety. Furthermore, the technology incorporates an advanced thermal management system. The two companies anticipate that the market potential for nuclear batteries will significantly increase in the coming years.
