Scientists at Ohio State University have created an innovative battery that converts nuclear energy into electricity using light emission, offering a potential breakthrough in nuclear waste recycling. The study, published in Optical Materials: X, shows how gamma radiation may be used to generate electricity for microelectronics, with promising implications for future solutions.
The battery, a compact prototype measuring only four cubic centimeters, works by combining high-density scintillator crystals with solar cells. When exposed to radiation, scintillator crystals emit light, which solar cells absorb and convert into power. In controlled experiments, researchers tested the battery using cesium-137 and cobalt-60, two common fission byproducts from spent nuclear fuel. The results indicated that cesium-137 produced 288 nanowatts of power, while cobalt-60, a more potent isotope, yielded 1.5 microwatts—enough to power small sensors.
Lead researcher Raymond Cao, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Ohio State, believes that with the right radiation source, the technology could be expanded to provide watt-level power. Such developments could pave the way for use in nuclear waste storage facilities, deep-sea research, and space missions that require dependable energy sources.
One of the main benefits of this battery is its safety. While it uses gamma radiation, known for its tremendous penetration power, the battery itself doesn't contain any radioactive materials, making it safe to handle. Additionally, the design reduces the requirement for maintenance, making it an excellent energy solution in areas with high radiation levels and limited human access.
The study also found that the battery's efficiency is influenced by the shape and size of the scintillator crystals. A larger volume enhances radiation absorption, while an increased surface area improves solar cells' energy conversion capability. Researchers are now focusing on refining the design to optimize efficiency and scalability.
Despite the promising results, scaling up the technique remains difficult due to prospective production costs. Further research is required to assess long-term viability and improve energy output. However, the researchers are optimistic that nuclear-powered batteries could play an important role in future energy generation and sensor technology.