Physical viability for nuclear batteries

Nuclear batteries are devices that provide electrical power by converting the energy of radioactive decays. Their full operational potential depends on the actual limits set by the specific power (W/g) released by a radioisotope. This paper analyzes the main features of α-, β^- or γ-emitting radioisotopes most qualified to run nuclear batteries, and provides updated values of specific power released by their decays as well as specific total energy (kWh/g) supplied over a given working period. When it is the case, the contribution coming from the daughter radionuclide is also taken into account. (author)