China takes step forward in developing next-generation granary

The first five 9,000-tonne pneumatic grain storage facilities were successfully inflated in China on Monday – another step forward in the country's efforts to develop its fourth-generation grain storage technology. Each silo, with a diameter of 24 meters and a height of 33 meters, can store up to 9,000 tonnes of grain, enough to supply food for 23 million people for one day. Once operational, a network of sensors inside will allow for real-time, comprehensive monitoring of the grain's temperature. In addition to their waterproofing, insulation and airtightness, the silos offer a significant reduction in operational and maintenance costs, expected to be 30 percent lower than traditional silos.