Chinese researchers have conducted a successful test of a new hydrogen bomb that contains no nuclear components. According to a study published in a Chinese scientific journal, the 2 kg device produced a fireball with a temperature exceeding 1000°C that lasted more than two seconds — 15 times longer than a similar TNT explosion, reported by the Baltimore Chronicle with reference to South China Morning Post.
The development belongs to the 705th Research Institute of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), which specializes in underwater weaponry. The bomb’s main component is magnesium hydride — a silvery powder capable of storing significantly more hydrogen than compressed gas tanks. Initially, this material was developed to transport hydrogen to remote areas to provide clean energy and heat.
When activated by a conventional explosive charge, the magnesium hydride rapidly decomposes, releasing hydrogen that ignites instantly, creating an intense flame. According to the head of the research team, Wang Xuefeng, hydrogen explosions require minimal energy to ignite, have a wide impact radius, and spread rapidly in all directions.
The researchers note that the intensity of the explosion can be precisely controlled, allowing for uniform impact across a large area. At this time, there is no information regarding the potential use of this technology in China’s armed forces.
Earlier we wrote that China pushes tariff on American goods up to 125%.