As we discussed before, the C-14 is encased in a diamond shell and it functions similarly to solar panels, which convert light into electricity, but instead of using light particles (photons), they capture fast-moving electrons from within the diamond structure.

Apparently there are “significant” amounts of Carbon-14 in irradiated graphite from nuclear waste. This is the source of C-14 the researchers of the batteries expect to use. There are 250,000 tonnes of irradiated graphite worldwide, excluding China. One tonne is about one terrabecquerel of C-14. I have no idea what that translates to in mass or weight.

It takes a serious waste disposal problem and turns it into an asset, since C-14 is one of the radionuclides in irradiated graphite presenting the most significant long-term hazard.

The Significance of Carbon 14 in Graphite Reactor Components at End of Generation