Could we be looking at a time when batteries will have near infinite power?
This could be a reality if the research in the UK is able to scale up. Scientists are trying ti use nuclear waste to create batteries that can last more than a thousand years.
Next-generation diamond batteries that use energy from radioactive materials have already been developed and tested by researchers at the University of Bristol, who now hope to recycle waste from decommissioned nuclear power plants around the UK.
Countries like Britain have thousands of tons of Carbon-14 Isotopes from nuclear factories that were shut down. This could provide a valuable supply of resources to power to create diamond batteries.
They are already being tested under extreme conditions.
Why does this matter?
It is obvious that we are going to need a lot of energy storage going forward. Batteries today get weaker over time as they are used.
The batteries created are able to power small devices such as hearing aids. The hope is that breakthroughs will allow scaling to power a cell phone.
If this technology proves to be feasible, it could be a great way to recycle all the nuclear waste that many countries have. In Britain, this is over 100,000 tons.
Are we seeing the end to the concept of "planned obsolescence"?
Since the middle of the last century, products were designed to be obsolete after a set amount of time. The idea was to keep people coming back to purchase by ensuring the products would not last. Making something with a long lifespan was not in the best interest of repeat business.
What is the impact on companies that are in this industry?
It is obvious that battery manufacturers are going to have plenty business over the next decade or two. The pressure is on them to meet the expected demand. However, a technology such as this could radically upend their business model.
Here is a prime situation where what is best for the consumer is at odds with what is best for individual companies. This is not a new situation and spans all industries. We all know the world is seeking unlimited energy but this is not profitable for those companies that presently dominate it.
It will be an interesting situation to watch. The energy storage needs are so great that it could make the idea of "planned obsolescence" obsolete.
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Posted via Steemleo
