Beta-Voltaic Batteries

Beta emitter

If funded, this project will evaluate icosahedral borides as semiconductors to generate electricity when exposed to beta-radiation. The goal is to produce safe, small, light, very long lasting batteries that power common electronic devices used by Marines and soldiers in the field. Beta-emmissions are easy to shield and materials with short half-lives would be used to avoid special battery disposal requirements at the end of the battery’s life, which could last on the order of 25 years. If successful, this technology could result in a dramatic reduction in the load carried by ground combat personnel and for re-supply operations.

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