Abstract: A power cell which converts ionizing radiation into electrical energy. The power cell includes a multi-layer composite source element which includes a charged particle emitter layer, first and second source dielectric layers, a source collector layer and a source retarding layer. The source element is disposed within a multi-layer composite shield element having an absorber layer, first and second shield dielectric layers, a shield collector layer, and a shield retarding layer. An anode is connected to the emitter layer and a cathode to the collector layer. The emitter layer produces charged particles which interact with the dielectric layers to eject electrons which are collected by the collector layer to generate a potential between the anode and the cathode.

Abstract: A power cell for generating useful electrical power from high frequency electromagnetic radiation comprising a spiral-wound, multi-layer film forming a cylindrical body with a central opening for receiving the radiation source. The film has in succession a conductive grounded emitter layer, a first intermediate layer of dielectric material, a second intermediate layer of a material having a substantial Compton effect, a conductive collector layer, a third intermediate layer of the same dielectric material, a conductive retarding layer, and an insulating layer. The collector and emitter layers are to be connected to the opposite terminals of a load. A bleeder regulator is connected between the retarding and collector layers to pass excess charge on the retarding layer to the collector layer.