In China, a method for cooling quantum processors without using rare helium‑3 was discovered

China Breakthrough in Ultra-Low Temperature Technology

Chinese scientists have created a new rare-earth alloy based on europium, cobalt, and aluminum (composition EuCo₂Al₉). This material was first applied in a compact solid-state refrigerator without moving parts. The result exceeded expectations: the cooling temperature reached approximately –273 °C, setting a record for such devices.

Key Properties of the Alloy

* High thermal conductivity – comparable to ordinary metals, enabling rapid heat exchange.
* Adiabatic demagnetization – a mechanism that allows the material to cool itself and adjacent components.
* Achievable temperature 106 millikelvins (≈–273 °C) brings the system close to absolute zero.

Why It Matters

Traditional deep cooling methods use refrigerators based on helium‑3, a rare and expensive isotope. The new technology completely eliminates the need for helium‑3, making the process more accessible and independent of limited supplies. Additionally:
* Absence of liquid coolants and moving parts increases reliability.
* The system is compact and easily integrated into various devices.

Promising Application Areas

1. Quantum technologies – miniaturization of computing units and scaling of quantum platforms.
2. Military equipment – ultra-sensitive detectors, radars, communication systems.
3. Spacecraft – portable and reliable cryogenic solutions for long‑term missions.

Thus, the new alloy paves the way for more efficient, compact, and cost-effective ultra-low temperature cooling systems that can find applications across a wide range of industries.