China Mass-Produces 99.99% Silicon-28 for Quantum Computing
Updated
Updated · South China Morning Post · Jun 15
China Mass-Produces 99.99% Silicon-28 for Quantum Computing
2 articles · Updated · South China Morning Post · Jun 15
Summary
China National Nuclear Corporation said one of its institutes has achieved the country’s first independent large-scale production of silicon-28 with isotopic abundance above 99.99%.
The isotope is a key quantum-computing material because purified silicon-28 creates an ultra-quiet environment that reduces magnetic noise and helps fragile qubits stay stable longer.
The milestone closes a long-standing gap in China’s quantum technology supply chain, where silicon-28 production had been concentrated among a small group of suppliers in Russia, Europe and US-linked networks.
The advance fits Beijing’s broader push for technology self-reliance as competition with the United States intensifies over advanced fabrication and other strategic industries.
China now makes its own 'quantum silicon'. How does this change the timeline for breaking global encryption?
As China breaks a monopoly on a key quantum material, will a global price war reshape the entire tech industry?
Is China's state-led tech strategy proving that self-reliance is the new path to becoming a global superpower?
China Achieves 99.99% Ultra-Pure Silicon-28: Transforming Quantum Computing and Global Tech Supply Chains
Overview
In June 2026, China announced a major breakthrough in the mass production of ultra-pure silicon-28, led by the China National Nuclear Corporation and its research institute. By achieving an isotopic purity exceeding 99.99%, this advancement addresses a critical need for advanced technologies like quantum computing. The innovative process, described as 'sorting beans,' physically separates silicon isotopes without chemical reactions, allowing for precise enrichment of silicon-28. This achievement not only demonstrates China's expertise in isotope separation but also marks a significant step toward technological self-reliance and strengthens its position in the global high-tech race.