Refrigeration

Refrigeration and air conditioning could use a boost in efficiency. On that road, researchers have now developed an unusual new technique that could lead to "twist fridges", which cool by unraveling fibers that are tensely twisted.

Scientists led by the University of Cambridge have developed a way to replace the organic gases used in most conventional refrigerators with plastic crystals. By using crystals of neopentyl glycol under pressure, it may be possible to build safer, greener, and more efficient cooling systems.

Refrigerator technology hasn’t changed much in decades. Now researchers in Europe have shown promising early results with an experimental cooling system that uses magnetic fields and shape-shifting memory alloys.

The days of the rackety, energy-gobbling refrigerator may be numbered with the advent of more efficient systems that cool with the use of magnets. Cooltech Applications has launched the first magnetic refrigeration system (MRS) for commercial use.​​

In an effort to make a greener, more energy efficient cooling system, a team of engineers from Germany's Saarland University is turning to shape memory materials to replace the refrigerant gases used in conventional cooling technologies.

GE researchers have developed a new type of refrigeration technology using magnets that is more environmentally friendly and is predicted to be 20 to 30 percent more efficient that current technology ... and could be in household fridges by the end of the decade.

The Solar Cooler, as its name implies, is a portable container for food and drinks that keeps its contents cold using a compact refrigeration system connected to solar panels. According to the designers, the cooler can hold a steady temperature of 42° F (5.5° C) for over 24 hours.

As part of a two-year pilot project, the US Department of Energy will be using fuel cells to power the refrigeration units of four cold transport trailers.

The new Euroengel range of refrigerated, lightweight boxes can be temporarily fitted to any commercial vehicle and easily transferred between vehicles.

The SmarSofa from Gorenje has a remote-controlled integrated refrigerator for chilled gourmet delights at the touch of a button.

A new “smart” metal being developed by researchers at the University of Maryland could help cool homes and refrigerate food 175 percent more efficiently, cutting summer electricity bills and greenhouse gas emissions.

If harnessed, the giant magnetocaloric effect could allow for fridges that chill food using magnetic fields.