Nuclear Battery: 50 Years of Continuous Power, No Charging Needed

A Chinese startup has introduced a groundbreaking battery promising a remarkable 50-year lifespan without the need for recharging or maintenance.

Betavolt, headquartered in Beijing, unveiled its nuclear battery, claiming it as the world's first to achieve atomic energy miniaturization by incorporating 63 nuclear isotopes into a module smaller than a coin.

The company revealed that its next-generation battery has entered pilot testing and is set for mass production, targeting applications in phones, drones, and other commercial sectors.

According to a press release, Betavolt's atomic energy batteries aim to fulfill enduring power needs across various domains, including aerospace, AI systems, medical equipment, microprocessors, sensors, and robotics, thereby positioning China at the forefront of the AI revolution.

The battery operates by harnessing energy from decaying isotopes, a concept explored in the 20th century for space missions and scientific research. Despite initial breakthroughs, early nuclear batteries were prohibitively expensive and cumbersome.

Under China's 14th Five-Year Plan, efforts to refine and commercialize nuclear battery technology gained momentum, with parallel research initiatives in the US and Europe.

Betavolt's initial nuclear battery delivers 100 microwatts of power and a 3V voltage, measuring 15x15x5 cubic millimeters, with plans for a 1-watt version by 2025. Its compact size enables series connection for increased power output, envisioning perpetual mobile phones and drones.

Boasting a layered design to prevent fire or explosion from sudden impacts, the battery operates within a wide temperature range from -60°C to 120°C.

Betavolt underscores the safety of its atomic energy battery, emphasizing its applicability in medical devices like pacemakers, artificial hearts, and cochlear implants. Furthermore, the company highlights the environmental friendliness of its batteries, with isotopes decaying into stable, non-radioactive copper post-use, posing no threat to the environment.