New Cooling System Could Reduce Environmental Impact

A system developed by university engineers in Hong Kong could help reduce the environmental impact of the world’s cooling systems.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, the device also broke the world record for cooling performance, according to a news release from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

Elastocaloric Cooling

The researchers said their “multi-material cascading elastocaloric cooling device” overcame a heat transfer challenge that has plagued similar systems.

The team built the system using three nickel-titanium shape memory alloys across the cold, intermediate, and hot ends of the device. The resulting temperature change was 48% more efficient than the previous record.

In addition to being more efficient, shape memory alloys are completely recyclable and free of greenhouse gases, scientists said.

Transforming Cooling-Dependent Industries

The technology has the potential to transform industries that depend on cooling systems and reduce energy consumption across the globe. Conventional refrigeration systems rely on vapor compression technology, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

Researchers said heating and cooling systems currently account for one-fifth of global electricity use and are on pace to become the second-largest consumer of electricity worldwide by 2050.

Next Steps

Engineers next hope to improve shape memory alloys and develop new devices for both sub-zero cooling and high-temperature heat pumps.

"In the future, with the continuous advancement of materials science and mechanical engineering, we are confident that elastocaloric refrigeration can provide next-generation green and energy-efficient cooling and heating solutions to feed the huge worldwide refrigeration market, addressing the urgent task of decarbonization and global warming mitigation,” HKUST’s Professor Sun Qingping said.