Doha: Researchers from Ohio State University have developed an efficient battery that operates using nuclear waste.

According to Qatar News Agency, although radioactive waste poses significant risks to humans, animals, and the environment, and is challenging to dispose of, it also serves as a potential energy source.

Capitalizing on this potential, the American scientists created a compact battery measuring only 4 cubic centimeters, capable of converting nuclear energy into electricity using light radiation. Notably, the battery itself does not contain any radioactive materials, making it completely safe to touch, despite being powered by radioactive sources.

The prototype of the battery was tested with two different radioactive sources, cesium-137 and cobalt-60, which are common by-products of nuclear fission. The cesium-137 battery produced approximately 288 nanowatts, sufficient to power a TV in standby mode. The cobalt-60 battery yielded even more promising results, generating 1.5 microwatts, enough to power a small sensor.