Scientists create diamond batteries that can last for thousands of years

According to the latest press release from the University of Bristol (UK), a group of scientists and engineers have made an important step forward in the field of energy research by successfully creating the world's first carbon-14 diamond battery.

This is a groundbreaking invention, opening up the potential for wide-ranging applications in many fields, from renewable energy to long-term energy storage technology.

This work is considered an important milestone, demonstrating the applicability of carbon-14 in the development of new energy sources, promising to bring about remarkable improvements in efficiency and sustainability in the future.

The new battery technology is based on the same radioactive isotope carbon-14, which is commonly used in carbon dating.

However, diamond battery technology exploits the radioactive decay of carbon-14, a process in which carbon-14 emits a very low level of energy over an extremely long period of time, allowing the battery to last for years without needing to be replaced.

Essentially, the technology works on the same principle as solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity.

However, instead of capturing photons (light particles) like in solar cells, diamond cells use the ability to capture fast-moving electrons created in the structure of diamond when carbon-14 decays.

These electrons are collected and converted into electrical energy, providing a stable and long-lasting source of energy. Therefore, diamond batteries are not only different in their operating principle but also provide an energy solution with the potential for long-term use without the need for frequent regeneration or replacement.

Sarah Clark, Director of the Tritium Fuel Cycle Programme at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), said: "Diamond batteries offer a safe and sustainable solution for providing uninterrupted power. These batteries are made from synthetic diamonds, encapsulating small amounts of carbon-14 in an extremely safe way, promising to open up a new energy future that is stable and long-lasting."

Diamond batteries have a huge range of potential applications, thanks to their ability to provide stable and long-lasting energy.

In the medical technology field, diamond batteries can power critical devices such as pacemakers, hearing implants, and prosthetic eyes without the need for battery replacement, minimizing the inconvenience and risks associated with periodic battery replacement. This is especially important in situations where the continued operation of these devices is required without interruption.

In addition, diamond batteries can also be used in harsh environments, such as in outer space or deep in the ocean, where battery replacement becomes extremely difficult or impossible.

Because diamond batteries have a long lifespan and require no regular maintenance, they are the ideal solution for powering devices that operate in extremely harsh conditions.

Although this new diamond battery technology is unlikely to be immediately applied to common devices such as phones, laptops, smart homes or electric cars, products where we always want batteries with long life and infinite charging cycles, it is still a very impressive and potential scientific achievement.

This technology is mainly suitable for applications that require a stable power source over a long period of time without replacement or maintenance, such as in medical, aerospace, or harsh environments.

While not a solution to all current energy needs, this development promises to lead to new advances, not only in specialized fields but also potentially impacting many industries in the coming years.