Radioisotopic Power Generation Utilizing The Beta Voltaic Effect

Nucell, Inc., a subsidiary of Peripheral Systems, Inc. (Figure 1) is developing an alternative energy technology for generating electrical power by employing waste radioisotopes as the fuel in a device which utilizes the phenomenon known as the "Beta Voltaic Effect" to convert the radioactive decay energy directly into electricity without going through a thermal cycle. Experimental data suggests that efficiencies on the order of 25 percent are achievable. The great attraction of isotopic power supplies is that radioactive decay energy is several orders of magnitude greater than chemical energy. This technology has promise of yielding low volume, low weight, high energy density power sources that will be economical for long unattended life with high reliability. A United States Patent was issued in May 1989, to protect this Resonant Nuclear Power Supply.