On June 15, it was reported by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) that Chinese scientists have achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of stable isotope enrichment. For the first time, they have successfully realized independent mass production of silicon-28 isotopes, with an abundance exceeding 99.99%, and its key indicators have reached internationally advanced levels. This achievement marks a substantial leap forward for China in establishing an independently controllable stable isotope industry ecosystem.
Silicon-28, often referred to as the "world's purest silicon," can dramatically reduce environmental noise interference in quantum computing. Beyond quantum computing, ultra-high-purity silicon-28 also shows immense potential for applications in cutting-edge fields such as advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes, high-end navigation systems, and metrological standards.
Previously, the team from the CNNC's Research Institute of Physical and Chemical Engineering had already achieved production of 26 stable isotopes across 12 elements, including molybdenum, tellurium, and nickel. They have continuously advanced the engineering and industrialization of related technologies.
