Scientists have discovered a massive thorium deposit in China that could potentially provide enough energy to power the country for 60,000 years. Thorium, a silver-colored radioactive metal, produces 200 times more energy than uranium and generates minimal radioactive waste, making it a promising alternative for nuclear power.
The recently declassified report, published in Geological Review, revealed that the Bayan Obo mining complex alone contains around one million tonnes of thorium. Fan Honghai, the study’s lead researcher, stated, “These thorium resources in tailings remain totally untouched.”
A Beijing-based geologist called the discovery “a game-changer,” saying, “For over a century, nations have fought wars over fossil fuels. It turns out the endless energy source lies right under our feet.” However, extracting thorium is costly and energy-intensive, requiring large amounts of acid, and concerns remain over potential weaponization.
While the exact amount of thorium available remains classified for national security reasons, researchers believe it could revolutionize China’s energy independence. The next challenge lies in making the extraction process viable and ensuring the resource is used responsibly.
