Elastocalorics

Elastocaloric cooling represents a solid-state refrigeration technology that uses the elastocaloric effect, where certain materials absorb or release heat when subjected to mechanical stress. When these materials—typically shape-memory alloys like nickel-titanium—are stretched or compressed, their crystal structure changes, causing a temperature change that can be harnessed for cooling. Unlike traditional vapor-compression refrigeration that uses greenhouse gas refrigerants, elastocaloric systems use only solid materials, eliminating direct emissions and reducing environmental impact.

The technology offers several advantages: no harmful refrigerants, potentially higher efficiency than conventional systems, and the ability to operate without moving parts in the working fluid. Elastocaloric cooling could replace traditional air conditioning and refrigeration systems, particularly important as cooling demand grows globally and regulations phase out hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants. Research institutions and companies are developing elastocaloric systems, with some prototypes demonstrating proof-of-concept for various cooling applications.

At TRL 5, elastocaloric cooling is in active research and development, with laboratory demonstrations showing promising performance. The technology faces challenges including material fatigue from repeated stress cycles, efficiency optimization, system integration complexity, and scaling to practical cooling capacities. However, as the world seeks alternatives to harmful refrigerants and more efficient cooling systems, elastocaloric technology offers a promising pathway. If durability and efficiency challenges can be overcome, the technology could transform the cooling industry, providing environmentally friendly and potentially more efficient alternatives to conventional refrigeration systems.