University of Bristol researchers have grown a man-made diamond that, when placed in a radioactive field, is able to generate a small electrical current. This technology could solve some of the problems of nuclear waste, clean electricity generation and battery life.

The diamond creates an electric current when placed in proximity to a radioactive source. Encapsulating nuclear waste inside the diamond produces a source of electricity that has no moving parts, no emissions, and no need for maintenance. The prototype battery used Nickel-63 as the radiation source.

The diamond creates an electric current when placed in proximity to a radioactive source. Image source: PixabayFuture versions will use Carbon-14, both to boost efficiency and to take advantage of the isotope’s abundance in the UK’s nuclear reactors. Carbon-14 is concentrated on the surface of graphite blocks used to regulate nuclear reactions, simplifying retrieval. Another advantage of Carbon-14 is its short-range radiation. A diamond can absorb the radiation, rendering it harmless to humans.

The research team’s ideas for diamond battery use focus on applications where battery replacement is difficult or not feasible, such as satellites or high-altitude drones. The team is asking the public to share ideas for using this battery technology at #diamondbattery.