UK scientists develop world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery that lasts thousands of years

• UK scientists develop the first carbon-14 diamond battery, capable of powering devices for thousands of years
• The battery uses radioactive carbon-14 and diamond casing to generate continuous power safely
• This could revolutionise implants like pacemakers, hearing aids, and ocular devices, minimising replacements

Scientists and engineers from the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the University of Bristol have unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in energy technology: the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery. This revolutionary battery harnesses the power of the radioactive isotope carbon-14, offering a reliable energy source capable of lasting thousands of years.

This milestone in battery technology has far-reaching implications, with potential applications spanning medical devices, space exploration, and remote operations.

According to UKAEA, the carbon-14 diamond battery represents a significant leap forward in sustainable energy solutions. 

The battery generates power by capturing electrons emitted during the radioactive decay of carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years. This process is similar to how solar panels convert light into electricity, though it leverages electron movement within the diamond instead of sunlight.

The diamond acts as a protective casing, ensuring the radioactive material remains safely contained while continuing to generate power.

One of the most promising uses of this battery is in medical implants. Bio-compatible diamond batteries could power devices like pacemakers, hearing aids, and ocular implants. These long-lasting batteries would eliminate frequent replacements, reducing patient discomfort and the need for repeated surgical interventions.

Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA, highlighted the importance of this development:

“Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power.”

The durability and longevity of the carbon-14 diamond battery make it ideal for use in extreme environments. On Earth, it could power devices in remote locations where conventional battery replacements are impractical.

In space, the battery’s ability to provide consistent power for decades positions it as a critical component for long-term missions. Devices such as active radio frequency (RF) tags used for tracking spacecraft or payloads would benefit significantly from this technology.

The carbon-14 diamond battery was developed through a partnership between UKAEA and the University of Bristol. Researchers collaborated to build a plasma deposition rig at UKAEA’s Culham Campus, enabling the creation of the diamond material.

Professor Tom Scott from the University of Bristol expressed enthusiasm for the battery’s potential:

“Our micropower technology can support a whole range of important applications, from space technologies and security devices through to medical implants. We’re eager to explore these possibilities further with industry and research partners.”

The carbon-14 diamond battery promises to revolutionise how we think about energy. By offering a safe, sustainable, and extraordinarily long-lasting power source, this innovation could redefine energy solutions for a wide range of applications.

As the UKAEA and the University of Bristol continue to refine this technology, its impact is expected to extend far beyond its initial applications, shaping the future of energy for future generations.

Frequent national grid failures could persist unless Nigeria overhauls power sector, experts warn

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Nigeria's power sector is facing a growing crisis, with stakeholders warning that the frequent collapses of the national grid could persist unless urgent reforms are implemented to address the system's numerous challenges.

Experts pointed to several systemic issues that are exacerbating the grid's instability. Key factors include outdated equipment, insufficient gas supply, poor coordination between power plants and gas pipelines, and the absence of a reliable backup reserve system.