China detonates non-nuclear hydrogen bomb, blast creates 1,000°C fireball
Chinese researchers have detonated a new non-nuclear hydrogen bomb capable of generating a sustained, ultra-high-temperature fireball, marking a significant leap in military and energy technology.In a controlled field test, as reported by the South China Morning Post, the 2kg device produced a white-hot inferno exceeding 1,000C for over two seconds—15 times longer than equivalent TNT blasts—by leveraging magnesium hydride, a solid-state hydrogen storage material.advertisementSCIENCE BEHIND THE WEAPONDeveloped by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) 705 Research Institute, the bomb uses magnesium hydride, a silvery powder that stores hydrogen more efficiently than pressurized tanks.
When triggered by conventional explosives, the material fractures into micron-scale particles, releasing hydrogen gas that mixes with air and ignites. This creates a self-sustaining combustion loop: the heat from the initial explosion propagates further decomposition of magnesium hydride, releasing more hydrogen and extending the fireball's duration.The blast generated 428.43 kilopascals of overpressure at two meters — 40% of TNT's force — but its thermal damage radius far surpassed traditional explosives, melting aluminum alloys and enabling precise, large-area destruction.
The technology allows directed energy deployment, making it suitable for neutralizing high-value targets or saturating vast zones with intense heat. (Photo: Getty)
advertisementMILITARY AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONSThe technology allows directed energy deployment, making it suitable for neutralizing high-value targets or saturating vast zones with intense heat.While the study did not specify deployment scenarios, the device aligns with China's push for cleaner military energy solutions, including electric warships and long-endurance drones.Researchers highlight its potential for submarine fuel cells and drone power systems, bridging defense and sustainable energy goals.PRODUCTION BREAKTHROUGHSA key enabler is China's new magnesium hydride production facility in Shaanxi, which uses a safer, cost-effective 'one-pot synthesis' method to produce 150 tonnes annually—a stark contrast to previous lab-scale outputs of mere grams per day.This industrial-scale production, developed by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, reduces explosion risks during manufacturing and supports both military and civilian applications.The innovation echoes historical energy-driven military shifts, from coal-powered steamers to thermonuclear arms. As the People's Liberation Army advances its 'green' modernisation, this technology shows China's dual focus on strategic dominance and sustainable innovation.Must Watch
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