CHINA deployed five 9,000-ton, air-supported membrane grain warehouses at the Sinograin complex in Changsha, Hunan Province, last week. This is the first time this fourth-generation grain storage technology has been deployed in the country.

The silos were constructed in approximately 20 minutes using compressed air. Grain is transported via an elevator tower to the roof inlet and evenly distributed inside. Each silo, with a diameter of 24 meters and a height of 33 meters, can store up to 9,000 tons of grain — enough to feed 23 million people for one day.

“What’s unique about these pneumatic silos is that they can better withstand rain and cold air compared to traditional grain storage facilities. For storing grain, their airtightness is six times higher than national standards, and their thermal insulation performance is three times better than conventional squat silos,” said Wang Yue, head of the engineering design center at the Chengdu Grain Storage Research Institute under Sinograin.

Beyond the outer air membrane, the silos feature a reinforced concrete layer for structural support and a polyurethane thermal insulation layer. Once operational, a network of sensors inside will allow for real-time, comprehensive monitoring of the grain’s temperature. The nearly oxygen-free environment also helps control pests, ensuring optimal grain quality.

In addition to waterproofing, insulation, and airtightness, the silos offer a significant reduction in operational and maintenance costs, which are expected to be 30% lower than those of traditional silos.

The five silos are expected to begin operations in February next year. (CGTN)