Researchers at the Russian Scientific Research Nuclear University (MEFI) have finished preparing the first experimental model of an atomic battery that can last up to 80 years without recharging.
This type of innovative energy works with one of the “plutonium” isotopes, and according to scientists, it is completely safe and capable of generating electricity for decades. The researchers expect that serial industrial production of the battery will begin after 5-6 years, and radioactive “plutonium” with a “half-fission” period of 87 years will be used in it. It is possible to extend the life of the atomic battery up to 400 years, if the most active “Americium-241” is used.
The battery power can reach 500 watts of generated power, which is sufficient to operate meteorological stations in the cold conditions of the far north regions, in addition to the possibility of using it as a power source for spacecraft and pacemakers.
Andrei Kuznetsov, head of the institute at the Russian Nuclear University, said that the new battery does not need maintenance and is able to work offline for decades, according to what was published by the State Atomic Energy Corporation “Rosatom”.