The new Chinese invention that could revolutionize air conditioning as we know it
Conventional air conditioning consumes huge amounts of electricity and generates polluting gases that contribute to . With 20% of global electricity consumption derived from these systems, the need to find is urgent. In this context, elastocaloric refrigeration could be the answer.
This innovative system uses shape memory alloys that absorb and release heat when stretched and contracted. Although it has not yet been commercialized due to high costs and limited durability of materials, recent advances in are changing this landscape.
Chinese Scientists Break Barriers with Elastocaloric Air Conditioning
The Chinese team of scientists from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering has managed to double the capacity of elastocaloric refrigeration, extending the superelasticity window to 100 Kelvin by combining Ni-Ti alloys and using water between temperature phases. This breakthrough could make this technology viable for large-scale use, improving efficiency and the lifespan of the materials involved.
This Chinese invention is not only key to improving energy efficiency in buildings and appliances, but also in electric cars, whose energy consumption is mainly affected by their cooling systems. By implementing this new technology, electric vehicles could improve their range and reduce their environmental impact, accelerating the transition to a more sustainable mobility.
