Heat Transport
Articles tagged with Heat Transport
UCLA-led team discovers metallic material with record thermal conductivity
A UCLA-led research team has discovered a new metallic material that conducts heat nearly three times more efficiently than copper, opening up new pathways for cooling electronics and AI hardware. The material, theta-phase tantalum nitride, boasts an ultrahigh thermal conductivity of approximately 1,100 W/mK.
How femtosecond lasers push the limits of nanostructures for thermal engineering
Researchers develop a method to tune thermal conductivity in thin films using femtosecond lasers, achieving unprecedented throughput and nanoscale resolution. The technique enables laboratory-scale precision and industrial-scale production of phononic nanostructures.
Beyond shade: UCLA researchers improve radiant cooling to make outdoor temperatures feel cooler
A new approach harnesses radiant cooling to reduce outdoor temperatures by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The technique uses water-cooled aluminum panels and see-through, infrared-reflective thin polymer film to create a cooler space while maintaining visibility.
SwRI offers megawatt-scale heat exchanger testing and research
Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is expanding its heat exchanger testing capabilities to include megawatt-scale performance evaluations. This move addresses a significant market gap for high-heat transfer rates involving high-temperature and -flowrate applications in data centers, defense, and other fields.
Coupled electrons and phonons predicted to flow like water in 2D semiconductors
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have found that in 2D semiconductors, the interactions between electrons and phonons can conserve momentum and energy, leading to efficient hydrodynamic flow behavior. This discovery has significant implications for designing highly efficient electrical conductivity materials, even at room temperature.
Physics reveals the optimal roof ratios for energy efficiency
Researchers found that roofs with shorter peak heights (less than three feet) should be wider to minimize heat loss, while taller peaks require equilateral triangles with a specific height-to-width ratio. These findings are similar to those seen in ancient architecture across the world.
Ultra-thin cooling solution for mobile devices unlocks slimmer, high-performance technology
Researchers at Nagoya University developed an ultra-thin loop heat pipe to improve heat control in smartphones and tablets. The device transports heat without electricity, enabling sustained high performance without compromising on design or user experience.
New study reveals polymers with flawed fillers boost heat transfer in plastics
A team of researchers led by UMass Amherst discovered that imperfect polymer fillers can enhance thermal conductivity, challenging conventional wisdom. Polymers with defective fillers performed 160% better than those with perfect fillers in conducting heat.
Enhancing heat transfer using the turbulent flow of viscoelastic fluids
Viscoelastic fluids exhibit a unique relaxation time that interacts with turbulence, resulting in an unexpected meandering motion. This interaction leads to three distinct flow states: low, middle, and high diffusivity states, with the high-diffusivity state significantly enhancing heat transfer efficiency.
Enhanced westerly winds lead to increased ocean heat transport to the East Antarctic Ice Sheet
Research finds that strengthened westerly winds enhance clockwise oceanic circulations, transporting warm seawater and causing accelerated ice sheet melting in East Antarctica. This study's findings improve future sea level rise projections.
Engineers redefine how heat transfers on advanced surfaces
A team of engineers at the University of Texas at Dallas has developed a new surface design that collects and removes condensates rapidly, challenging conventional theory. The discovery reveals a limitation in existing heat transfer models and inspires a new theory to explain the phenomenon.
Synthesis of organophosphorus (III) compounds from white phosphorus via an adduct-catalyzed tandem electro-thermal approach
Scientists have developed a novel synthesis method for trivalent phosphorus compounds, leveraging an adduct-catalyzed tandem electro-thermal approach to produce high-yielding organophosphorus compounds with improved efficiency and selectivity. The approach also enables the in-situ consumption of renewable energy sources.
Hannover Messe: Smart materials offer sustainable cooling and heating solutions for homes, cars and industry
Researchers from Saarland University are developing novel air conditioning technology using elastocaloric effect, which can cool and heat more sustainably than current systems. The aim is to commercialize the technology within five years.
Green cement: Electric heating to contribute to climate neutrality
The ECem project aims to develop electric heating technologies for cement calcination, reducing CO2 emissions by up to three times. Researchers are exploring infrared and inductive heating methods to overcome material properties challenges.
Revolutionizing heat management with high-performance cerium oxide thermal switches
A research team at Hokkaido University developed novel cerium oxide-based thermal switches, surpassing prior benchmarks with high efficiency and sustainability. The switches feature a new benchmark for electrochemical thermal switches, offering broad applications in industries such as electronics cooling and renewable energy systems.
3D-printed hierarchical micro/nano-structured surface for high heat flux thermal management
Researchers developed a novel 3D-printed hierarchical micro/nano-structured surface to improve spray cooling's high heat transfer coefficient and critical heat flux. The new surface coordinates liquid film boiling and capillary evaporation, resulting in record-breaking heat transfer performance.
Improved predictive accuracy of fusion plasma performance by data science
A new method combines theory and simulation predictions with experimental data to improve fusion plasma performance accuracy. Multi-fidelity modeling enhances predictive accuracy using limited high-quality data, improving the reliability of plasma transport models.
Researchers develop new approach to measure ocean memory and find North Atlantic Ocean has nearly two decades memory
Researchers at University of Liverpool develop new method to measure ocean memory, revealing the North Atlantic Ocean has a nearly two-decade memory. This surpasses previous estimates and highlights the importance of ocean circulation in climate system predictability.
Making a difference: Efficient water harvesting from air possible
Researchers have developed a liquid moisture adsorbent that can efficiently harvest water from the air at near ambient temperatures. The technology, which uses random copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, has the potential to provide clean drinking water in arid regions and during disasters.
ISS National Lab publication highlights groundbreaking physical science research in space
Researchers on the ISS National Lab have leveraged microgravity to study fundamental physical phenomena, such as heat transfer, combustion, and fluid dynamics. These discoveries hold potential for advances in pharmaceuticals, energy production, materials manufacturing, and more.
Measurements from ‘lost’ Seaglider offer new insights into Antarctic ice melting
Scientists from the University of East Anglia have discovered a 50-metre-thick 'intrusion' of warm water under the Ross Ice Shelf, which has increased heat transport into the cavity by 45% over the last four decades. This finding suggests that climate change will likely lead to further melting and ice loss.
Review of thermal design of SiC power module for motor drive in electrical vehicle application
The paper reviews thermal design of SiC power modules for motor drives in electric vehicles, focusing on optimizing irregular Pinfin structures and collaborative design with DC bus capacitors and motors. Irregular Pinfin arrangements can enhance heat transfer efficiency and reduce pressure drops compared to regular layouts.
Producing liquid hydrogen using environmentally friendly technology
Researchers at the University of Groningen have successfully produced liquid hydrogen using a novel magnetocaloric cooling method, which consumes less energy and eliminates greenhouse gas refrigerant use. The breakthrough material does not contain rare-earth metals, reducing environmental concerns.
Slowing ocean current could ease Arctic warming -- a little
A new study suggests that a slowing Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could reduce projected Arctic warming by 2 degrees Celsius. However, this slowdown may also cause other climate disruptions, such as changes in the Intertropical Convergence Zone and sea level rise.
Breakthrough toward solving electronics overheating problem
Researchers developed a novel approach to regulate temperature based on gold structure concentration, improving spin wave transfer efficiency. This innovation has promising potential for future applications using spin waves and addresses the persistent issue of heat generation in electronic devices.
New organic thermoelectric device that can harvest energy at room temperature
Researchers at Kyushu University developed a new organic thermoelectric device that can generate power from ambient temperature. The device, composed of copper phthalocyanine and fullerenes, achieved an open-circuit voltage of 384 mV and a short-circuit current density of 1.1 μA/cm².
Heat transfer for PEM fuel cell cooling channels
A study investigated heat transfer in PEM fuel cell stacks with serpentine-type cooling channels, revealing the impact of operating conditions on refrigeration capability. The research aimed to develop a novel correlation for the Nusselt number, facilitating more efficient cooling system design.
Researchers discover new mechanism to cool buildings while saving energy
A new mechanism uses common building materials to absorb or radiate heat, reducing the need for air conditioning and heaters. This passive approach can save energy and is particularly beneficial for low-income communities with limited access to cooling and heating systems.
Revolutionary loop heat pipe transports 10 kW of waste heat — No electricity required
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a loop heat pipe that can transport up to 10 kW of waste heat without electricity, surpassing previous records. This technology has significant implications for energy efficiency and sustainability, particularly in the electric vehicle industry where it can reduce the need for electrical power.
Submarine canyons are crucial for the instability of the Antarctic ice sheet
A new study reveals the geological footprint of persistent bottom currents within East Antarctic submarine canyons, carrying ocean heat to the continent. The discovery highlights the key role of these canyons in the melting of glaciers, contributing to sea level rise.
Two-in-one mapping of temperature and flow around microscale convective flows
The study creates two 3D maps at once by combining near-infrared absorption imaging with image processing, providing insights into optimizing micro-heating and cooling devices. The technique promises to deliver new knowledge on convective plume formation at the microscale.
Researchers create the first comprehensive characterization of the extraordinary thermoelectric properties of cadmium arsenide thin films
Scientists have discovered a material that can harness waste heat, increasing energy efficiency and sustainability. The researchers found that thinner cadmium arsenide films exhibit higher thermoelectric sensitivity, allowing for more efficient cooling in cryogenic environments.
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers present new evidence for how heat is transported below the sun’s surface
The study reveals that supergranules, a flow structure in the sun's interior, challenge standard theories of solar convection. Researchers discovered that downflows appear weaker than upflows, suggesting an unseen component that could be small-scale plumes transporting cooler plasma into the sun's interior.
Geothermal model gives key insights into extracting renewable energy from superhot, super deep rock
Researchers have developed a computer model that sheds light on extracting renewable energy from superhot, super deep rock. The model shows the formation of microscopic cracks creating a dense 'cloud of permeability' throughout the affected rock, which can lead to higher power delivery and efficiency.
Bleaching of coral reefs shows severe ocean circulation changes
The study reveals that coral reefs are suffering from widespread bleaching and deaths, with the highest temperatures recorded in 175 countries. The researchers found that heat transport from the tropics to the polar regions has accelerated, causing sea surface temperature increases and exacerbating global warming feedbacks.
High-fidelity model for designing efficient thermal management surfaces
Researchers developed a high-fidelity model to predict liquid film boiling heat transfer on various textured surfaces, agreeing well with experimental data. The model predicts both heat dissipation and surface temperature, guiding the design of new heat management surfaces for next-generation electronics.
CO2 worsens wildfires by helping plants grow
A recent study by the University of California - Riverside found that carbon dioxide is driving an increase in the severity and frequency of wildfires by fueling the growth of plants that become kindling. This process occurs because plants use the extra CO2 to make carbohydrates, leading to an increase in biomass that burns.
Key to predicting heat events in Central Europe
A GEOMAR study found that low North Atlantic sea surface temperatures are responsible for heat events on land. The researchers discovered a link between cold ocean temperatures and European heat waves, which contributes to the formation of high pressure systems and clear skies.
Permselectivity reveals a cool side of nanopores
Scientists have found that by controlling ion flow through nanopores, they can achieve cooling. At high concentrations, increased heat was measured, but at low concentrations, negatively charged ions interacted with the nanopore wall, resulting in a decrease in temperature.
Polaritons open up a new lane on the semiconductor highway
Purdue University researchers have found that polaritons can contribute a larger share of thermal conductivity in semiconductors, overcoming phonon limitations. By understanding how to design materials and structures, manufacturers can incorporate these polariton-based nanoscale heat transfer principles into chip designs.
Boiled bubbles jump to carry more heat
A team of researchers, led by Jonathan Boreyko, has engineered a surface that makes bubbles jump, carrying more heat and improving the efficiency of water-based cooling operations. The jumping bubbles are able to carry energy away from a heated surface more effectively than traditional boiling methods.
Is graphene the best heat conductor ever? Purdue researchers investigate with four-phonon scattering
Purdue researchers found that graphene's thermal conductivity is lower than previously thought due to four-phonon scattering. The team predicted the material's thermal conductivity at room temperature to be 1,300 W/(m K), which is less than diamond and raw graphite.
New tool models viability of closed-loop geothermal systems
A team of experts has computationally modeled closed-loop geothermal systems to explore their economic viability. The study examines two basic setups and various parameters, including fluid types and pipe diameters, to optimize heat extraction from deep earth.
New cooling ceramic can enhance energy efficiency for the construction sector and help combat global warming—City University of Hong Kong research
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a passive radiative cooling material that achieves high-performance optical properties. The cooling ceramic reduces thermal load, provides stable cooling performance, and can be used in various building applications.
Study: Underground car parks heat up groundwater
A study found that underground car parks in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland warm the groundwater throughout the year. The team proposes using geothermal energy and heat pumps to extract excess heat from the ground, which could supply sustainable heat to cities like Berlin.
Deriving the fundamental limit of heat current in quantum mechanical many-particle systems
A novel inequality defines the limit of heat current flowing into a quantum system as its size increases, showing a cubic relationship with particle count. The study identifies superradiance as the most efficient mechanism for achieving this fundamental limit.
Freeze charges in flames
Researchers at KAUST studied the use of high voltages to control charged particles in flames, which could lead to improved flame stability and reduced soot formation. The team developed a simulation to understand this phenomenon and tested its predictions by studying a flame inside a cavity exposed to electric fields of up to 2,500 volts.
Study advances understanding of anthropogenic effects on climate change
A University of California, Riverside-led team found that anthropogenic aerosol-driven changes in ocean circulation and interbasin heat transport are more effective in altering oceanic heat distribution than those driven by globally increasing greenhouse gases. This advance in understanding will help develop climate mitigation strategies.
Researchers tune thermal conductivity of materials ‘on the fly’ for more energy-efficient devices
A team at the University of Minnesota discovered a way to control heat flow in materials 'on the fly' using a simple process. This record-setting discovery could lead to developing more energy-efficient and durable electronic devices.
Researchers finds a way to reduce the overheating of semiconductor devices
Researchers discovered a way to dissipate heat near hot spots in semiconductors by utilizing surface plasmon polaritons. The new method increased thermal conductivity by 25% and has implications for high-performance semiconductor device development.
Why Antarctic ice shelves are losing their mass and how it leads to global sea level rise
Researchers investigate the impact of oceanic warming on Antarctic ice shelves, highlighting the role of circumpolar deep water in causing melting and calving. The study emphasizes the need for improved understanding and modeling to predict future sea levels and their effects on coastal communities.
Finding the dream team to beat the heat
A team led by Associate Professor Jonathan Boreyko has discovered that ice can quench heat more effectively than water, especially at high temperatures. The study found that ice absorbs heat as it melts, reducing the amount of heat available for vapor bubbles to form.
Simplified calculations reproduce complex plasma flows
A new mathematical model predicts turbulence and heat transport in fusion plasmas with high accuracy, approximately 1,500 times faster than conventional large-scale nonlinear calculations. This breakthrough accelerates fusion research and expands the range of applicability.
Optical switching at record speeds opens door for ultrafast, light-based electronics and computers
Researchers achieved optical switching of a light signal at attosecond speeds, exceeding data transfer speeds by 1 million times. This breakthrough enables the development of ultrafast optical electronics and could increase data processing speed in long-distance communications.
QUT research shows bushfire safe rooms may save lives
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have built and tested a full-scale bushfire safe room that demonstrates excellent heat resistance. The results suggest the shelter could keep people alive for up to two hours in extreme conditions, but further testing is needed to confirm human survivability.
University of Illinois researchers present new theory of convection for understanding fast charging of batteries
Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a new theory that explains how convection occurs inside reactive porous media, shedding light on mass and heat transfer principles. The theory introduces a spectral Sherwood number and extends Newton's law of cooling for convection heat transfer to transient conditions.
Neutrons reveal key to extraordinary heat transport
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory used neutrons to map phason and phonon vibrations in fresnoite crystals. They found that phasons carry heat three times faster than phonons, which may improve the accuracy of simulations for energy materials.
Solid-state thermal transistor demonstrated
A research team at Hokkaido University has created a stable and effective solid-state electrochemical thermal transistor that can control heat flow with electrical signals. The device outperforms current liquid-state thermal transistors in terms of stability and efficiency.
A quasiparticle that can transfer heat under electrical control
Researchers find quasiparticles called ferrons that carry waves of polarization and heat in ferroelectric materials. The ferron's behavior is sensitive to an external electric field, turning the material into a thermal switch.