A team of researchers has developed a prototype battery that harnesses nuclear waste to power microelectronic systems. The innovative battery, roughly the size of a teaspoon of sugar at 4 cubic centimeters, was tested at Ohio State's Nuclear Reactor Laboratory. This breakthrough could herald a new era for microelectronics, offering a sustainable and efficient power source by utilizing radioactive materials.
The researchers conducted tests using two radioactive isotopes: cesium-137 and cobalt-60. When powered by cesium-137, the battery produced 288 nanowatts of power. However, the more radioactive cobalt-60 isotope significantly increased the output to 1,500 nanowatts. These power levels are sufficient for operating microelectronic systems such as microchips or emergency equipment, highlighting the battery's potential for specialized applications.
The concept behind the nuclear battery is pioneering. Researchers employed high-density materials known as scintillator crystals to convert gamma radiation into electricity. These crystals emit light when absorbing radiation. By integrating solar cells with scintillator crystals, the team successfully converted gamma radiation into usable electricity. Co-author Raymond Cao explained:
"We do not produce or carry a radiation source; instead, this device is designed for locations where intense gamma radiation is already present." – Cao
The approach offers a dual benefit by utilizing existing radiation sources and transforming them into a clean energy supply without carbon emissions. Cao further elaborated on the method's advantages:
"The beauty of this approach is that shielding materials can be replaced with a scintillator, and the glowing light it produces can be harvested and converted into electricity." – Cao
Despite the promise, the battery generates radioactive waste, which remains active for thousands of years and poses environmental hazards. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of this technology are significant. Nuclear power plants currently generate 18% of electricity in the United States, and repurposing nuclear waste into energy aligns with sustainability goals.
Ibrahim Oksuz, co-author of the study, expressed optimism about the technology's potential:
"The nuclear battery concept is very promising," – Ibrahim Oksuz
Raymond Cao highlighted another critical aspect of nuclear waste utilization:
"Nuclear waste emits powerful gamma radiation, a high-energy form that can penetrate most materials," – Raymond Cao
This characteristic of nuclear waste presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The research team’s innovative approach not only addresses the disposal issue but also leverages it to create energy.
