The Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Physics has released a landmark report charting the future of high-temperature superconductors, positioning China at the forefront of this transformative technology. Published on January 26, 2026, the strategic document identifies ten critical challenges in developing rare-earth barium copper oxide (REBCO) superconducting tapes – a material poised to revolutionize energy, transportation, and scientific research.
Unlike conventional superconductors requiring extreme cooling, REBCO tapes operate at liquid nitrogen temperatures (-196°C), significantly reducing operational costs. The report highlights their growing applications in nuclear fusion reactors, advanced medical imaging systems, and next-generation power grids, with current projects already demonstrating 30% efficiency gains in experimental energy transmission systems.
"This roadmap bridges laboratory innovation and industrial implementation," said CAS academician Fang Zhong. "By addressing fundamental material science challenges, we aim to transition from functional prototypes to optimized commercial solutions within this decade."
Key focus areas include enhancing current-carrying capacity under strong magnetic fields and developing scalable manufacturing processes. The institute's findings come as global demand grows for energy-efficient technologies, with superconducting power cables alone projected to form a $12 billion market by 2030.
Deputy Director Cheng Jinguang emphasized collaborative opportunities: "Our analysis provides a framework for academia and industry to jointly overcome technical barriers. Success could enable compact fusion reactors and lossless urban power networks within 15 years."
While China currently leads in superconducting tape production capacity, the report stresses international cooperation remains crucial for addressing shared technical challenges in this strategically vital field.
