A team of researchers at Ohio State University has developed an innovative prototype nuclear battery capable of converting gamma radiation into electricity, using materials that emit light by absorbing radiation.
How the nuclear battery works
The device measures 4 cubic centimeters and integrates scintillator crystals and solar cells to convert radiation into electric current. For its test, the scientists used cesium-137 and cobalt-60 , two radioactive isotopes derived from spent nuclear fuel. The results showed that the battery generated up to 1.5 microwatts of power with cobalt-60, enough to power low-energy sensors.
This technology is not designed for home use, but for environments where high levels of radiation already exist, such as nuclear waste storage pools or power systems in space and underwater exploration. Although the gamma radiation used is highly penetrating, the battery itself contains no radioactive materials, making it safe to touch.
On the other hand, the researchers mentioned that the power generated at present is low, and the technology could be scaled up in the future. The design and composition of the crystals influence the efficiency of the device, so adjustments in size and shape could increase its energy conversion capacity.
We are collecting something that nature considers waste and trying to turn it into a treasure.
Raymond Cao, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Ohio State.
The research was published in the journal Optical Materials: X and received support from the United States Department of Energy, reflecting its potential in the energy sector and development opportunities in the country.
This process is still in its early stages, but could open up new possibilities for harnessing nuclear energy.
Ibrahim Oksuz, co-author of the study.
Implementing such technologies could make a difference in nuclear waste management and energy supply in extreme locations, paving the way for future applications in space and energy technologies.
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Source: Ohio State News
Photo: Shutterstock
