This electric field trick boosted heat flow by nearly 300%
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered that applying an electric field to specialized ceramics can increase heat flow efficiency by nearly 300%. By aligning atomic vibrations called phonons, the team can direct heat movement more effectively.
Why it matters
This breakthrough could lead to significantly more efficient cooling systems for electronics and better energy conversion technologies.
Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), working with The Ohio State University and Amphenol Corporation, have uncovered a surprising new way to control how heat moves through solid materials. Their findings challenge long held assumptions about heat transport and could lead to more efficient cooling systems, energy devices, and electronic technologies.
The article reports on a Department of Energy research project with a focus on technical application.
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