Elastocaloric COoling and HEAT-pumping

Solutions developed

The EU faces a significant challenge in decarbonising the heating and cooling sector, which is crucial for achieving its climate goals. Current systems, including heat pumps and air conditioners, rely on vapour-compression technology that uses refrigerants with high global warming potential. The Kigali Amendment mandates a shift to eco-friendly refrigerants, yet these natural alternatives often present issues like flammability and reduced efficiency in hot climates. In this context, the ERC-funded E-CO-HEAT project offers a groundbreaking solution by advancing elastocaloric technology, a non-vapor-compression approach using safe, solid-state refrigerants. Evolving from the ERC StG SUPERCOOL project, E-CO-HEAT aims to refine this technology, improve its readiness, and develop a comprehensive strategy for industry adoption.

Main results

The ERC PoC E-CO-HEAT project builds on the ERC StG SUPERCOOL research, advancing elastocaloric technology. We have developed a fatigue-resistant elastocaloric regenerative cooling and heating device with breakthrough performance. E-CO-HEAT aims to enhance its technical readiness, customer engagement, business strategy, and IPR. After fine-tuning, the device will undergo industry-relevant testing to reach Technology Readiness Level 5 and secure IP protection. These steps will support engagement with industry partners, refine a business model, and pursue further funding to bring elastocaloric technology closer to market.