China has achieved a significant milestone in deep-sea mineral exploration with its heavy-duty mining vehicle, Pioneer II, reaching a record depth of 4,102.8 meters in the western Pacific Ocean. Developed independently by Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Pioneer II conducted successful sea trials that mark a breakthrough in the country’s deep-sea resource development technology.
Over a five-day period from June 22 to 26, Pioneer II completed five diving and seabed mining operations, achieving one dive per day. The vehicle successfully collected over 200 kilograms of various deep-sea mineral samples, demonstrating its capacity for efficient and effective resource extraction at unprecedented depths.
Yang Jianmin, chair professor at SJTU and chief scientist of Pioneer II, highlighted the significance of the achievement. “This marks the first time a Chinese deep-sea heavy-duty mining vehicle has conducted trial operations at depths exceeding 4,000 meters,” he said. “The success of these trials represents a major step forward in our ability to explore and develop deep-sea mineral resources.”
The Shanghai municipal government announced the successful trials on Tuesday, emphasizing the innovation and technological prowess demonstrated by the Pioneer II project. The deep-sea mining vehicle’s capabilities open new avenues for China’s exploration of mineral resources in the ocean depths, which could have significant implications for the nation’s economic and industrial development.
Pioneer II’s success not only showcases China’s growing expertise in deep-sea technology but also contributes valuable data and samples for scientific research. The ability to operate at such depths provides researchers and industry professionals with opportunities to study and utilize resources previously inaccessible.
The advancements made by Pioneer II underscore China’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in deep-sea exploration and mining, positioning the country as a leader in this challenging and strategic field.
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4,102.8 meters: China's deep-sea mining vehicle reaches record depth
cgtn.com
