Chinese nuclear authorities have announced that their research team has discovered rich uranium deposits at unprecedented depths, labeling this a breakthrough for national security.
According to scientists, many massive uranium deposits have been found at depths previously thought impossible, increasing China’s estimated total reserves tenfold to over 2 million tons.
This figure positions China on par with Australia, one of the world’s richest countries in uranium, according to scientists involved in the project, as reported by the South China Morning Post on May 30.
Chinese researchers claim to have discovered numerous uranium deposits at seemingly “impossible” depths. (Photo: China National Nuclear Corporation).
Using some of the world’s most advanced technology and equipment, geologists have increased exploration depths to 3,000 meters, six times deeper than most of the country’s uranium mines.
“This world-leading project is a significant breakthrough for our country,” stated the China National Nuclear Corporation on WeChat.
Li Ziying, Director of the Uranium Geological Research Institute in Beijing, noted that this discovery challenges conventional theories regarding uranium deposit formation.
It has long been believed that radioactive elements are concentrated in shallow, stable geological areas. However, some of the largest uranium deposits found in southern China in recent years lie more than 1,500 meters underground.
These areas often undergo intense tectonic activity, making it previously thought impossible for uranium ore to form at such depths due to the lengthy and complex formation processes.
China’s demand for uranium is rapidly expanding, with the country’s nuclear energy supply growing faster than any other nation, with 7 or 8 new reactors being built each year.
Uranium also plays a dominant role in weapon production. The nuclear stockpile of the Chinese military has significantly expanded in recent years as political tensions rise with the U.S. and its allies, according to several assessments based on available evidence.
However, most uranium mines in China prior to this new discovery have been small-scale with poor ore quality. Over 70% of the country’s supply comes from Kazakhstan, Canada, and Australia. This heavy reliance on foreign sources has raised security concerns for Beijing.
