Elastocaloric cooling offers a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigeration, freezing water without harmful refrigerants.

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Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology developed the first elastocaloric cooling device capable of reaching sub-zero temperatures, successfully freezing water without harmful refrigerants. The prototype uses nickel-titanium shape-memory alloys that release heat when compressed and absorb it when relaxed, achieving -12°C in lab conditions. While the technology offers a greener alternative to conventional refrigeration systems that emit potent greenhouse gases, significant challenges remain including lower energy efficiency, high manufacturing costs, and the need for system optimization before commercialization in 2-3 years.

Solid-State Elastocaloric Cooling Hits Sub-Zero Mark