A European consortium is developing a high-efficiency air conditioning system using shape memory alloys as solid-state refrigerants.
The EU-funded SMACool project is advancing elastocaloric technology to deliver sustainable and energy-efficient cooling for residential buildings. Led by Universität des Saarlandes in Germany, and supported by partners in Italy, Slovenia, and Ireland, the initiative aims to build and validate a functional elastocaloric air-conditioning device. Unlike traditional systems, this approach avoids harmful refrigerants by using shape memory alloys that generate cooling through mechanical stress.
Technology Overview
Elastocaloric cooling leverages the thermoelastic properties of certain metal alloys. When mechanically stressed, these materials undergo temperature changes, enabling a refrigerant-free heat exchange process. The SMACool project will construct a prototype system tailored for residential use and develop supporting tools, including a multi-physical simulation platform and a testing environment for future devices.
The team will also focus on material development, optimizing alloy performance for elastocaloric applications, and will design an efficient electric drive unit specific to the system’s operational demands.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
SMACool aims to achieve a two- to threefold increase in energy efficiency over conventional HVAC systems. By eliminating greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional refrigerants, the project supports EU climate goals and offers potential energy savings across residential and commercial cooling sectors.
"Elastocalorics offer the unique combination of high energy efficiency and zero global warming potential,” said the project team at Universität des Saarlandes. “Our goal is to demonstrate a practical, scalable solution for sustainable residential cooling.”
Project Details
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Project name: SMACool
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Grant agreement ID: 101162223
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Duration: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2027
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EU funding: €3,976,608.75 (approx. $4.3 million)
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Coordinated by: Universität des Saarlandes, Germany
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Partners: Institutions in Italy, Slovenia, and a high-tech company in Ireland
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Funded under: European Innovation Council (EIC)