In eastern China, a groundbreaking machine has just been unveiled. The CHIEF project aims to simulate extreme physical forces to explore natural phenomena that cannot otherwise be recreated.
The facility, recently activated, is at the heart of a major scientific ambition. Developed by Zhejiang University, this impressive structure has the capability to generate a gravitational force 1,900 times stronger than Earth's gravity. This performance far surpasses the previous record held by the United States. In fact, this installation can achieve an acceleration of 1,900g compared to the previous record of 1,200g.
Designed to study complex phenomena, the platform combines three giant centrifuges and 18 onboard units. These devices spin samples at extreme speeds, pushing heavy materials outward and thus recreating hypergravity conditions. The goal: to analyze the impact of these forces on structures such as dams or geological formations.
One of the major benefits of this project lies in the compression of scientific time. Through CHIEF, natural processes that take decades or even centuries can be simulated in a matter of days. This allows for a better understanding of phenomena such as mountain erosion or seismic movements.
Beyond geology, the facility is a vital asset for energy exploration. Researchers aim to refine the extraction of natural gas hydrates, energy-rich crystals found beneath the oceans and permafrost. These resources could transform the production of clean energy, but their extraction remains complex.
Simultaneously, CHIEF will serve to enhance the safety of critical infrastructure. Scientists will be able to test the resilience of dams, slopes, or tunnels under extreme conditions, thus preventing potential disasters. Deep-sea engineering and exploration of extreme environments are also among the priorities.
Technical precision is essential for these experiments. The centrifuges must maintain absolute stability while generating immense forces. The control system is capable of managing a staggering amount of data in real-time to ensure reliable results.
The Centrifugal Hypergravity and Interdisciplinary Experiment Facility (CHIEF), located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is expected to help scientists address a wide range of engineering challenges.
Photo: ifeng
With a budget exceeding $276 million, this project is part of China's broader vision that places scientific innovation at the heart of its development. Included in the 13th Five-Year Plan, CHIEF aspires to become a global benchmark in interdisciplinary research.
What is hypergravity?
Hypergravity refers to a state where gravitational forces are stronger than those we experience on Earth (1g). It is measured in multiples of Earth's gravity, for example, 2g, 10g, or in the case of CHIEF, up to 1,900g.
To generate hypergravity, centrifuges are used—machines that spin at high speeds. Their rotation creates a centrifugal force, simulating much higher gravity by pushing objects outward.
This phenomenon is applied in various scientific fields. It helps simulate extreme conditions, such as those found in deep-sea environments, or test the resilience of materials and structures under significant stress.
In laboratories, hypergravity also accelerates natural processes. For instance, geological phenomena that take centuries can be reproduced in a matter of hours, facilitating their study and understanding.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND