Researchers from the Harbin Institute of Technology are developing a submarine capable of travelling from Shanghai to San Francisco in 100 minutes.
According to the South China Morning Post, which first reported the project, the Chinese used a technology called "super cavitation" to create a "bubble" that lessens the friction to make a vehicle go faster, and integrated it into the new submarine. The same technology was used by the Russians for torpedoes that can go as fast as 230 mph. To date, the fastest models of submarine can only go as fast as 40 knots, which is about 46 mph.
"Our method is different from any other approach, such as vector propulsion," lead researcher Li Fengchen toldSouth China Morning Post. "If a swimsuit can create and hold many tiny bubbles in water, it can significantly reduce the water drag. Swimming in water could be as effortless as flying in the sky."
Li explained that steering the submarine will be possible by equipping it with a liquid membrane that will help with navigation. The liquid-membrane technology will reduce the challenges that may affect the submarine's mobility. The amount of liquid membrane is also important in reducing the friction that also influences the ease of steering the ship.
Although the development of this submarine is exciting, the research team is not allowed to give out further details.
"These studies in China do not go to academic papers, but the technology is being tested in the laboratory," Stephen Chen, the publication reporter, wrote in an e-mail to the Washington Post. "The scientists have received pressure from authorities due to the sensitivity of the research and they hope the matter can cool down a bit."
Once successful, it is likely that the submarine will be used to transport humans and materials. This is a faster alternative, as the typical flight duration between San Francisco and China is about 12-13 hours.
