Korean Researchers Develop 50-Year SiC Betavoltaic Power Cell
A South Korean research team has demonstrated a silicon carbide betavoltaic cell capable of generating electricity for over 50 years without recharging, utilizing radioisotopes for power.
Researchers at the Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) and Kyungpook National University have developed a silicon carbide (SiC)-based betavoltaic cell, a device that converts radiation into electricity. This new power source is designed for an operational lifespan exceeding 50 years, making it suitable for extreme environments like space or polar regions where frequent maintenance is impossible.
Betavoltaic cells function similarly to solar cells, but instead of sunlight, they use radioactive materials to emit electrons (beta particles) which are then absorbed by a semiconductor to generate electricity. This principle allows for stable power generation independent of external conditions like weather or light availability, making them ideal for deep-sea, underground, or remote surveillance applications.
The KERI team utilized SiC, a material known for its superior resistance to heat and radiation compared to traditional silicon. By optimizing a p-i-n diode structure, they enhanced the efficiency of radiation-to-electricity conversion. The researchers then obtained nickel-63 (Ni-63), a beta-emitting isotope, and established a specialized measurement system to test their device. This resulted in a prototype capable of powering a low-power LED, achieving a power density of 160 µW/cm².
Theoretical projections based on electron-beam tests suggest a potential power density of 0.85 mW/cm², which is over 4,200 times higher than previous Korean targets for unit-cell performance. The long half-life of Ni-63 indicates a potential for century-scale power generation. The team also employed AI modeling for accurate power output predictions and conducted proton irradiation tests to simulate the harsh radiation conditions encountered in space, gathering crucial reliability data for future missions.
This development in SiC betavoltaic cells offers a significant advancement in ultra-long-life, low-power energy sources. The high power density achieved, especially with projected improvements, positions this technology for applications requiring decades of maintenance-free operation, such as in deep space probes, remote sensors, or even in-situ power generation on celestial bodies where traditional power sources are impractical.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.