Development of Hydrogen Loading System and Characterization of Tritiated Metallic Films for Betavoltaic Batteries

Betavoltaic cells can provide extended power up to 10 or more years in extreme temperature environments, −55°C to 150°C. However there is limited study on the loading of tritium which is beta source for these cells. The present study examines the loading of the tritium using surrogate hydrogen gas in various films through experiments and simulations. A detailed review of the betavoltaic cell characteristics is first discussed and key challenges in this technology are identified. For the experimental work, a testing facility is designed for loading hydrogen in metallic films such as titanium, palladium and scandium which are good for storage of hydrogen or tritium. The facility is unique as it enables precise measurement of hydrogen loading in the films using pressure difference. Preliminary tests of loading on scandium films were carried out and some results are presented. In order to optimize the film thickness simulations were carried out using MC-SET code for beta flux emission. The results of the simulations for titanium and palladium film are presented.