Government Launches 'Multi-purpose Synchrotron Radiation Accelerator' Construction Project

▲4th generation synchrotron accelerator.

[Asia Economy Reporter Junho Hwang] Starting this year, a project to build the latest synchrotron radiation accelerator that can be utilized in various fields such as semiconductors, materials, and bio will commence. Work will also begin to create an atmospheric radiation impact testing platform capable of evaluating the reliability of core electronic devices such as autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence.

The National Science and Technology Advisory Council held its 9th review meeting online at 4 p.m. on the 24th, chaired by Vice Chairman Hanwoong Yeom, and approved these matters. The review meeting is the highest deliberative body for science and technology policy chaired by the President. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the meeting was held via video conference.

Through this meeting, the government decided to expand the strategic use of the synchrotron radiation accelerator. The synchrotron radiation accelerator is a device that accelerates electrons close to the speed of light to precisely machine ultra-fine equipment or analyze the components of materials.

The Ministry of Science and ICT will newly build an 'industrial support multipurpose synchrotron accelerator' to enhance support capabilities for advanced industries. It will also work on improving the performance of the proton accelerator. The goal is to establish a 200MeV-class (currently 100MeV) atmospheric radiation impact testing platform capable of evaluating the reliability of core electronic devices and components such as autonomous vehicles and AI. To expand user services, beamlines will also be increased. Additionally, support will be provided to ensure timely establishment of the heavy ion accelerator construction project and the heavy particle accelerator construction project.

Furthermore, the 3rd Basic Plan for Science, Technology, and Culture was also approved at this review meeting. The Ministry of Science and ICT incorporated mid- to long-term policy directions reflecting changes brought by the 4th Industrial Revolution into this Basic Plan for Science, Technology, and Culture.

The government will promote science content for the entire population and support science culture content using media with high public attention.

In particular, to assist citizens refraining from going out due to COVID-19, support will be provided for useful and entertaining online content. For example, to minimize learning gaps for students, science-related content will be integrated and provided through the 'ScienceAll' website using online platforms.

After the end of COVID-19, efforts will be made to revitalize tourism and performance industries through science travel, exhibitions, performances, science culture products, science festivals, and science culture city projects.

Vice Chairman Hanwoong Yeom stated, "It is necessary to properly prepare and promote the centennial plan for large accelerators, which are important national research infrastructures, and continuously strengthen activities to broaden the base of science and technology through efforts to approach the public."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.