Alpha indirect conversion radioisotope power source

Advantages of radioisotope-powered electric generators include long service life, wide temperature range operation and high-energy density. We report development of a long-life generator based on indirect conversion of alpha decay energy. Prototyping used 300 mCi Pu-238 alpha emitter and AlGaAs photovoltaic cells designed for low light intensity conditions. The alpha emitter, phosphor screens, and voltaic arrays were assembled into a power source with the following characteristics: Isc=14 μA; Uoc=2.3 V; power output −21 μW. Using this prototype we have powered an eight-digit electronic calculator and wrist watch.