Novel air-conditioning technology: Artificial muscles deliver sustainable cooling

A new type of energy efficient, ecologically sustainable cooling technology that does not require the use of climate-damaging refrigerants is currently being developed by Professor Stefan Seelecke and his team at Saarland University. The new technology makes use of shape-memory materials that are also known as “artificial muscles.” These materials are able to transport heat by loading and unloading nickel-titanium wires. Seelecke’s team is currently developing the technology for use in cooling systems for electric vehicles. The researchers have been presenting their technology at the Hannover Messe, showcasing the world’s first machine that can cool air by flexing artificial muscles.