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In a historic feat that blended cutting-edge technology with profound symbolism, China successfully harnessed a flame from the depths of the ocean to serve as the sacred fire for its National Games. This "Torch Fire from Ice on Seafloor" represents a remarkable achievement in deep-sea exploration and a powerful commitment to a green future.
? The Source of the Flame
The "source fire" for the 15th National Games and the 12th Para Games was not lit by the sun or a lens, but was born in the dark, high-pressure environment of the deep sea. Its fuel was combustible ice, scientifically known as natural gas hydrate.
What is Combustible Ice? It is a ice-like crystalline substance formed from natural gas (mainly methane) and water under conditions of high pressure and low temperature. Despite its name, it is not ordinary ice; it can be ignited directly and burns cleanly, producing primarily carbon dioxide and water.
The Location: The fire was collected at the Haima Cold Seep area in the northern part of the South China Sea, at a depth of 1,522 meters. Cold seeps are areas where methane-rich fluids seep out from the seafloor, supporting unique deep-sea ecosystems.
? How the Deep-Sea Fire Was Captured
The successful capture of the "source fire" was a complex operation that demonstrated China's advanced capabilities in deep-sea technology. The entire process, from deployment to the return of the flame, took just 3 hours and 4 minutes.
The table below outlines the key steps of this groundbreaking mission:
Step Key Action Primary Actor Location/Depth
1. Deployment & Descent The "Haima" ROV, equipped with a special collection device, was lowered into the sea. "Haima" ROV, launched from the "Ocean Geology No. 2" research vessel Surface to 1,522m depth
2. Collection A robotic arm maneuvered a collection chamber to capture combustible ice and associated gas escaping from the seep. "Haima" ROV's robotic arm 1,522m seafloor
3. Preparation & Ignition Collected ice was depressurized to release methane, which was then ignited by an electric spark from solar-powered energy. Specially developed "In-situ Collection, Decomposition, and Ignition Device" 1,522m seafloor
4. Return & Transfer The ROV carried the burning flame back to the surface, where researchers transferred it to a special "source fire" box. Research team on the "Ocean Geology No. 2" vessel Sea surface
? A Feat of Engineering and Symbolism
This achievement was far more than a spectacular stunt; it was a demonstration of national technological progress and a symbolic gesture with deep meaning.
A Showcase of Technological Prowess: This mission was a global first for a major comprehensive sports event. It showcased China's mastery in areas like deep-sea remote-controlled robotics, high-precision offshore engineering, and clean energy exploration. The ability to perform such a complex task in a high-pressure, dark, and cold environment highlights the reliability of the "Haima" ROV and the supporting technologies.
The Green Promise of the Flame: The "source fire" is a powerful symbol of green development. It utilizes combustible ice, a strategic clean energy source, and used solar energy converted into electricity for ignition, truly creating a "fire and water amalgam" spectacle. This aligns with the green philosophy of the Games, showing a commitment to a sustainable future.
The Deeper Meaning: The flame, journeying from the mysterious depths of the South China Sea to ignite the passion of the nation, symbolizes the courage to explore the unknown and the harmonious integration of human endeavor with the natural world. It is a testament to what becomes possible when advanced technology is guided by a vision for a better future.
This "Torch Fire from Ice on Seafloor" has undoubtedly set a new benchmark, illustrating how human ingenuity can draw inspiration from nature's most challenging environments to fuel dreams and aspirations.
I hope this article meets your needs. If you would like to focus on a different aspect, such as the specific technical challenges overcome by the engineering team or a more detailed look at combustible ice as an energy source, feel free to let me know.
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