image: Figure | Device structure and working principle WLC-based RPVC. a, Device materials and configuration of the RPVC. b, Schematic diagram of the assembling structure and working principle of the RPVC.
Credit: Tongxin Jiang et al.
The advancement of technology has spurred human exploration into extreme environments. However, conventional power systems face significant challenges in such scenarios, particularly in terms of energy density, durability, and maintenance. Traditional batteries, hampered by their structural design and energy sources, are unable to meet the demands of long - term, autonomous operation in harsh conditions.
A collaborative team, led by Prof. Haisheng San from Xiamen University in China, Prof. Xin Li from the China Institute of Atomic Energy in China, and their colleagues, has made a remarkable breakthrough in this field. In a new paper published in Light: Science & Applications, they presented a novel 90Sr radio-photovoltaic cells (RPVC) based on a waveguide light concentration (WLC) structure. This innovative design integrates multilayer-stacked GAGG:Ce scintillation waveguides with 90Sr radioisotopes.
Electron beam irradiation and tests using an 85Kr radioisotope source revealed that the edge surfaces of the GAGG:Ce scintillation waveguides exhibited highly efficient radioluminescence emission. A prototype of the RPVC achieved a maximum output power of 48.9 μW and an unprecedented energy conversion efficiency of 2.96%. Moreover, a multi-module integrated RPVC prototype demonstrated a maximum output power of 3.17 mW, a short-circuit current of 2.23 mA, and an open - circuit voltage of 2.14 V. Remarkably, after undergoing a 50-year equivalent electron beam irradiation, the device showed only a 13.8% optical performance degradation, confirming its exceptional radiation hardness. These findings indicate that WLC-based RPVCs can achieve both high power output and outstanding long-term stability, representing a substantial advancement in facilitating nuclear battery applications.
The scientists summarized the advantages of their nuclear battery, stating, "We designed and fabricated an RPVC that achieves a balance between efficiency and stability. The WLC structure realizes a 3-fold improvement in energy conversion efficiency compared with conventional RPVC structures. The irradiation equivalent to 50 years of service confirms that WLC-based RPVCs have great long-term service stability." They also added, "Although large-scale production of RPVCs is still limited by challenges such as mass production and cost reduction of 90Sr radioisotopes, the current research results mark a substantial step forward in promoting nuclear battery applications."
Article Title
High-efficiency 90Sr radio-photovoltaic cells based on waveguide light concentration structure