Perspectives and Energy Applications of Magnetocaloric, Pyromagnetic, Electrocaloric, and Pyroelectric Materials

Researchers from the Laboratory for Refrigeration and District Energy (LAHDE), in collaboration with the University of Seville and the University of Cambridge, have published a paper in the journal Advanced Energy Materials (IF=27.6), presenting a perspective on the use of magnetocaloric, pyromagnetic, electrocaloric, and pyroelectric materials for energy conversion. These related technologies, as alternatives to existing ones, have significant potential for improving energy efficiency and the use of environmentally friendly materials and fluids, particularly in the fields of cryogenics, refrigeration, heat pumps, and efficient conversion of low-temperature waste heat into useful work.

The first part of the paper describes the main challenges faced by these materials and their applications, while the second part proposes specific solutions, especially in the area of improving heat transfer between these materials and the working medium in devices. Among these, the authors have introduced a new operational concept for the first time, for which LAHDE holds U.S. and Chinese patents. This concept enables a significant increase in power density, not only for caloric devices but also for devices based on thermoacoustic technologies and mechanical Stirling principles. The article concludes by addressing and opening up entirely unexplored areas, ranging from ultra-high temperature heat pumps to applications beyond our planet.

Open-access paper is available here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aenm.202401739

Abstract:

This perspective provides an overview of the state of research and innovation in the areas of magnetocaloric and pyromagnetic materials, and electrocaloric and pyroelectric materials, including the overlapping sub-areas of multicaloric and multipyro materials that can operate simultaneously under the application of magnetic and electric fields. These materials are critically examined for their potential to revolutionize cooling, heating, and energy-harvesting applications. This perspective first summarizes the state-of-the-art advancements and highlights recent significant developments. Then, it is identified and discussed that the prevailing challenges hindering the widespread adoption of technologies based on these materials. In this context, after consulting with members of the caloric and pyro communities, a technology roadmap is outlined to guide research efforts in overcoming current barriers to applications, with the goal of achieving impactful results by 2040. This roadmap emphasizes the importance of focusing on under-researched materials, novel devices, and application spaces, paving the way for interdisciplinary efforts that can lead to significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.