China tests first non-nuclear "hydrogen bomb"

Chinese scientists say they have successfully detonated a 2kg experimental "hydrogen bomb" without using nuclear materials, creating a sustained, red-hot fireball lasting more than two seconds (about 15 times longer than a TNT explosion), according to a peer-reviewed study published in the Chinese scientific journal Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance, the South China Morning Post reported.

The device, developed by the 705 Research Institute of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), uses magnesium hydride, a silver powder that can store large amounts of hydrogen in solid form. Under the influence of a conventional explosive charge, magnesium hydride rapidly decomposes, releasing hydrogen gas, which ignites, creating an intense, long-lasting inferno exceeding 1,000 °C.

"Hydrogen gas explosions ignite with minimal ignition energy, have a wide explosion range, and release flames that quickly erupt and spread widely," explained CSSC scientist Wang Xuefeng, lead author of the study. "This combination allows for precise control of the intensity of the explosion, easily achieving uniform destruction of targets over large areas."

In a series of controlled experiments, the scientists measured a peak overpressure of 428 kPa at a height of two meters—about 40% of the explosive force of TNT, but with a much greater thermal effect. The sustained fireball was enough to melt aluminum alloys, highlighting the potential of weapons that can deliver both explosive and thermal effects in a single munition.

The article describes a self-sustaining chain reaction: the shock wave from the detonation breaks the magnesium hydride into micron-sized particles, accelerating the release of hydrogen. The combustion releases heat that promotes further decomposition until the fuel runs out.

The CSSC statement comes as China expands both civilian and military applications of solid-state hydrogen storage. Earlier this year, researchers from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics opened a plant in Shaanxi province capable of producing 150 tons of magnesium hydride per year.

In addition to explosives, solid hydrogen technology is being explored for clean-energy fuel cells in autonomous power systems, underwater propulsion, and long-range drones. Meanwhile, China's People's Liberation Army is investing in "green" modernization, including electric warships, hybrid tanks, and environmentally friendly space launch vehicles.

The study does not specify the location of the test or details of when China might field such a system. However, the demonstration highlights a new class of high-energy non-nuclear munitions that could transform traditional battlefield capabilities.