A Chinese aerospace start-up is developing a novel rocket launch technology that utilizes supercritical carbon dioxide, the same compound responsible for the fizz in soda, in an effort to reduce costs and increase launch frequency. Zhiyu Aerospace Technology, also known as Z-Trak Space, based in Zhuzhou, Hunan province, announced on Monday a collaboration with local tech firm Chiyang Space Power Technology Company to apply "supercritical carbon dioxide cold-launch" methods to small launch vehicle systems.

The technology involves using carbon dioxide in its supercritical state—a fluid condition achieved above specific temperature and pressure thresholds—to create high-pressure gas that expands rapidly, propelling rockets upward before engine ignition. This cold launch approach prevents the rocket’s exhaust flames from contacting the launch platform, potentially reducing wear and maintenance on ground facilities, which are typically subjected to extreme heat and corrosion during conventional hot launches.

Zhang Zihan, founder of Z-Trak Space, highlighted the potential of this method to "fundamentally change the model for small liquid-fuel launch vehicles" by eliminating dependence on fixed, heavily engineered launch pads. Unlike traditional launches, which require infrastructure such as launch towers and deep flame trenches to manage exhaust gases reaching temperatures up to 3,000 degrees Celsius, the cold launch system aims to lower operational complexity and associated costs.

Z-Trak Space is currently focusing on developing reusable small to medium-sized rockets for dedicated small-payload missions, targeting improvements in safety, environmental impact, and fuel efficiency during low-altitude flight phases. The company emphasized that supercritical carbon dioxide is non-toxic and that the cold launch process produces no harmful emissions, offering a cleaner alternative to standard rocket launches.

This initiative aligns with a broader expansion in China’s commercial space sector, which recorded 50 launches last year—over half of the country’s total space missions. Industry observers have noted that China’s commercial space market is approaching a pivotal moment, transitioning from a policy incubation phase toward industrial-scale growth. Z-Trak Space’s innovative launch technology could contribute to increasing the pace and responsiveness of commercial launches amid this rapid development.