SHALOM OLALEYE
Beijing-based company, Betavolt, has unveiled a groundbreaking battery measuring 15mm long and 5mm thick, capable of delivering 100 microwatts of power at 3V.
The company, which received a $2.3 million grant in 2022, initially aimed to produce ultra-long life batteries for the Department of Defence.
Now, Betavolt plans to enter the consumer market, with a 1W battery slated for release by 2025. The compact size of the battery allows for easy connectivity of multiple units, enhancing power output for applications such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras, and drones.
The innovation lies in Betavolt’s nuclear battery design, functioning like a miniature nuclear reactor employing 63 nuclear isotopes within a space smaller than a coin. Energy is generated by converting the decay of isotopes into electricity. While the company assures safety, acknowledging the potential emission of beta radiation, it emphasizes that the battery is secure enough for use in medical devices like pacemakers and cochlear implants.
This development could revolutionize the consumer electronics landscape, eliminating the need for frequent charging in a world dominated by smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Despite the immense potential, concerns about radiation persist. Betavolt asserts that beta radiation, though emitted, can be easily shielded, offering protection without posing a health risk. The transformative impact of this technology extends beyond personal devices, hinting at the possibility of larger batteries for electric vehicles capable of extended usage without frequent charging, potentially reshaping the future of transportation.