2024-05-05 04:00:15
China seems to be charting new horizons with the development of laser-powered submarines. This progress, reported by the South China Morning Post, emerges from research conducted at Harbin Engineering University. The idea of ​​this propulsion innovative approach emerged two decades ago in Japan, but it is only today that it is taking shape.
This technology uses a two-megawatt laser, routed through fibers microscopic optics enveloping the submarine. This device generates plasma in the water, inducing a wave of detonation propelling the craft forward with an impressive force, up to 70,000 newtons.
But that’s not all: this laser propulsion also generates a phenomenon of “supercavitation“, vaporizing the water around the submarine to create air bubbles. This coat of air significantly reduces friction, theoretically providing the submarine with the ability to surpass the vitesse sound. However, despite this remarkable progress, the technology is not yet ready to equip nuclear submarines. Researchers must overcome several obstacles, including the heat dissipation of optical fibers and their resistance in a marine environment, as well as their integration with acoustic coatings.
Ge Yang’s team from the University of Harbin has made significant advances in improving the conversion efficiency of lasers into thrust. They also drew inspiration from theaerospace to optimize the system, reducing losses ofenergy and minimizing internal friction.
The potential application of this technology goes beyond submarines, opening possibilities for underwater weapons, missiles and torpedoes, by increasing their underwater range through supercavitation.
However, challenges remain, including heat management and the durability of optical fibers, as well as their integration into existing structures. Additionally, the effect of cavitation bubbles on submarine stealth remains a question mark, potentially compromising their stealth.
Despite these challenges, this technology promises not only to revolutionize naval propulsion, but also to have civil applications.
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