British-Nigerian scientists have participated in inventing the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery capable of power for thousands of years.
A team of scientists and engineers from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the University of Bristol completed the revolutionary project. UK-Nigerians scientist Eseosa Ekanem and engineer Fatimah M. Sanni significantly contributed to the innovation.
“I want to be a part of something that brings about a change,” Ekanem said in an interview. “Whether it’s change now or change towards the future.” Diamond battery technology is a groundbreaking invention that could redefine energy storage by powering devices.
This new type of battery has the potential to power devices for about five thousand years, making it an incredibly long-lasting energy source.
The battery encapsulates the radioactive isotope carbon-14 within a synthetic diamond structure. As carbon-14 decays, it emits beta radiation, which the diamond absorbs and converts into a continuous electrical current.
The process is similar to how solar panels convert sunlight into electricity but uses radiation from radioactive decay instead.
Experts in the field recognize this technology’s transformative potential. Professor Tom Scott, a materials expert at the University of Bristol, emphasizes the battery’s suitability for extreme environments, such as space, where traditional battery replacement is not feasible.
“Our micropower technology can support a range of important applications from space technologies and security devices to medical implants. We’re excited to be able to explore all of these possibilities, working with partners in industry and research, over the next few years.”
Use Case Application of Diamond Battery
The implications of this technology are vast, especially in applications where battery replacement is challenging or impractical.
Potential uses include powering medical implants like pacemakers, space exploration equipment, and security devices, benefiting from a reliable, long-term energy source.
Diamond batteries could also be used in extreme environments—both in space and on earth—where replacing conventional batteries is not practical.
The batteries could power active radio frequency (RF) tags, allowing devices, such as spacecraft or payloads, to be identified and tracked for decades at a time, either on earth or in space. This would reduce costs and extend the battery’s operational lifespan.
“Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that uses a manufactured diamond to encase small amounts of carbon-14 safely,” said Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA.
Alignment With Sustainable Development Goals
The diamond battery innovation aligns with several of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably:
Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): Diamond batteries contribute to the availability of clean energy solutions by providing a sustainable and long-lasting energy source.
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9): Developing this advanced technology fosters innovation and supports resilient infrastructure.
Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3): In medical applications, these batteries can enhance the reliability of life-saving devices, improving patient outcomes.
Main Image: Diamond Battery team Image Credit: Atomic Energy Authority
