Scientists have devised a new way to cool things called “ionocaloric cooling.”
Instead of using harmful refrigerants, this process relies on charged particles, or ions, to make a material absorb heat and cool its surroundings. Applying a small electric current can change the material’s melting point, causing it to absorb heat from its environment and cool down.
The experiments have shown promising results, with a temperature drop of 25 degrees Celsius achieved using very little energy. If developed further, this new cooling method could replace current refrigeration systems known to harm the environment.
Further experiments and research are needed to fine-tune the materials and techniques and address engineering challenges before this new cooling process becomes widely available.