The Need

Efficient thermal management is crucial in various industries, yet current solutions often fall short in terms of performance and adaptability. There is a significant need for a technology that can effectively control heat flow in bulk materials, enhancing the efficiency of systems ranging from electronics cooling to waste heat recovery.

The Technology

This technology leverages the unique properties of ferroelectric and relaxor-ferroelectric materials to modulate thermal conductivity using an external electric field. This method allows for precise control of heat flow in bulk single-crystal or polycrystalline materials, without the need for a substrate or crystallographic phase transitions.

Commercial Applications

• Solid-state refrigeration systems: Achieve higher efficiency and lower energy consumption without harmful refrigerants.
• Solar thermal installations: Optimize heat transfer for better performance and increased energy output.
• Waste heat scavenging systems: Improve efficiency in capturing and utilizing industrial waste heat.
• Cooling solutions for electronic devices: Provide efficient, precise thermal management for high-performance electronics.

Benefits/Advantages

• Higher heat switch efficiency
• Does not require a substrate, is self-standing
• Versatile in operating temperature ranges