2023-08-09 08:00:01
The summer with high temperatures in Spain has made air conditioning essential, but also increases energy consumption. However, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed an innovative invention that uses passive cooling to complement traditional air conditioning systems in buildings, without the need for electricity and with minimal water consumption.
This device combines three methods of passive cooling: radiant cooling, evaporation and thermal insulation, which allows the interior temperature of a home to be reduced by up to 9.3ºC compared to the ambient temperature. Plus, it works without electricity, making it ideal for sending cold water through pipes and improving the efficiency of existing air conditioning systems.
The invention features three layers of materials that work together to provide cooling as water and heat pass through the device. The first layer has an aerogel, a semi-insulating material that is permeable to water vapor and infrared radiation. The evaporation of water provides part of the cooling power, while infrared radiation radiates heat directly into space, avoiding overheating of the environment.
The system can be used to reduce the load on traditional air conditioners, thus increasing their efficiency and energy savings. It is also useful for refrigerating homes and preserving food in hot regions without a connection to the electrical network.
MIT researchers have successfully tested a prototype of the system in various climatic conditions, achieving a cooling of 9.3ºC in their experiment. In addition, this device requires little maintenance, since you only need to add water for evaporation once every four days in hot and dry areas, and once a month in humid areas.
Although some adjustments are still needed for its industrial production, the team is excited about the potential of this technology to revolutionize refrigeration and save energy. With the possibility of producing at low cost and its positive impact on the environment, this MIT invention promises to be an efficient and sustainable solution to combat the heat.
#MIT #invention #revolutionizes #passive #cooling #saves #energy