China’s fourth generation synchrotron to kick-off November 2018

China plans to build another synchrotron, and this time its the new-generation synchrotron radiation facility in Beijing. Although China has synchrotrons ranging from first to third generation, this is one of its kind. Around 50 such facilities are at present working in the world.

Dong Yuhui, a researcher working at Chinese Academy of Sciences said that the project will most likely commence in November 2018. He also said that it will be completed in six years. China estimates an investment of 4.8 billion yuan ($698 million) for this project, called Beijing Light Source.

This project aims to meet the national security demands. It will also create aerospace materials among other products. This, according to the researchers will provide high resolution methods to know substantial structures better. As of this fourth generation synchrotron is concerned, the key performance indicators will be much more accurate than the third generation ones.

This boosts the pride of the country as it will create the brightest X-rays worldwide. It will be around 70 times brighter than the US National Synchrotron Light Source II. Also, it will be 10 times brighter than Sweden’s MAX IV, the strongest of its kind on Earth.

Dong also explains the use of this bright X-rays, “Bright X-rays could help measure the atomic structure of various substances and the higher brightness will help people to see more details of substances, something akin to using flashlight to see things”.

A synchrotron is a source of brilliant light that is used to explore deep into the structural and chemical properties of materials at molecular levels. It produces light by radio frequency waves and powerful electromagnets to accelerate electrons nearly the speed of light. On adding energy to the accelerating electrons, the magnets alter their course. Thereby naturally emit a very brilliant and highly focused light.

So far, these have paved a major path in clearing several questions in the medical field. The mechanism of tumours and cerebrovascular diseases was one of the major sections where these synchrotrons have helped.