Betavoltaic battery with diamond moderator and related system and method
US9064610B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG21H1/06
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus includes a beta particle source configured to provide beta particles. The apparatus also includes a diamond moderator configured to convert at least some of the beta particles into lower-energy electrons. The apparatus further includes a PN junction configured to receive the electrons and to provide electrical power to a load. The diamond moderator is located between the beta particle source and the PN junction. The apparatus could also include an electron amplifier configured to bias the diamond moderator. For example, the electron amplifier could be configured to receive some of the beta particles and to generate additional electrons that bias the diamond moderator. Also, the diamond moderator can be configured to receive the beta particles having energies that are spread out over a wider range including higher energies, and the diamond moderator can be configured to provide the electrons concentrated in a narrower range at lower energies.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.