Session: MNS-01 MEMS/NEMS Power Sources, Sensors and Actuators, and Computing

Paper Number: 75037

Start Time: August 17, 11:10 AM

75037 - Betavoltaic Power Sources 

Radioisotope power sources are being realized in many compelling applications that were deemed unfeasible due to limitations of batteries in temperature, chemical instability, irreversible losses, and electrolyte leakage.  Additionally, the high propensity for catastrophic failure due to high instabilities of lithium and electrolyte, and shorts that  cause thermal runaway resulting explosions, fire, and venting of hazardous gasses.  Betavoltaics are becoming a mature technology by the efforts of private industry, academia, and programs investments in adopting the technology into their systems.  Though not a new concept, began in 1950’s which led to the development of photovoltaics, and peaked in mid-1970, research has been minimal and sporadic until recent advancements in ultra-low power electronics and materialization of low power applications. 

This brief will highlight our research advancements in tritium betavoltaics, examine challenges with the technology, and discuss applications and near term developments. The technology has been demonstrated to be safe, can provide continuous milliwatt to nanowatt power for over 10 years, does not suffer from permanent capacity loss due to temperature, and is identified as a disruptive technology that DoD and NASA should be pursue. There are applications where the betavoltaic alone can provide necessary power and ones where energy storage is needed for burst power.  Applications for betavoltaic power sources may be found in distributed power systems, unattended sensors, surveillance, remote structural and status monitors, space exploration and satellites, anti-tamper, and bio-medical devices & implants. The energy conversion efficiencies of the betavoltaics are still below 10% so there are opportunities for improvement through research. The landscape of radioisotope power sources has evolved through innovative developments of other forms of radioisotope energy conversion techniques and with that, many more opportunities for research and development.  Some of the near term opportunities will be discussed.

Presenting Author: Thomas Adams Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, (NSWC Crane)

Authors:

Thomas Adams Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, (NSWC Crane)