Methods, compositions and systems for solid-state barocaloric applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooling technologies, particularly vapor compression cycles using hydrofluorocarbons, have high global warming potential and cannot be scaled down for miniaturization needs in next-generation electronics, while existing barocaloric materials face challenges like low thermodynamic efficiencies, small entropy changes, and mechanical durability issues.
Innovation Solution
A method employing a barocaloric cycle using a composition with an organic layer between inorganic layers, where compression induces an exothermic phase transition releasing latent heat, utilizing materials like 2D perovskites with long alkyl chains and transition metal halides, and controlling pressure to manage phase transitions for efficient cooling and energy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If vapor compression cycles using hydrofluorocarbons are used for cooling, then cooling efficiency is maintained, but global warming potential increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the cooling system by transitioning from vapor compression to solid-state barocaloric cycling, operating at different pressure-temperature states to achieve cooling without greenhouse gases
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes solid-solid phase transitions in barocaloric materials under applied pressure to achieve cooling, replacing the vapor-liquid phase transitions of conventional refrigerants that have high global warming potential
2Loss of energy
If conventional cooling methods are used, then cooling performance is adequate, but scalability to microchip dimensions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the cooling function into discrete barocaloric material units that can be individually controlled and scaled, allowing integration at microchip dimensions while maintaining cooling performance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical vapor compression system with a solid-state barocaloric system that uses pressure-induced phase transitions, enabling miniaturization without the bulk components required by conventional mechanical cooling
3Reliability
If existing barocaloric materials are used, then solid-state cooling is achieved, but thermodynamic efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs composite barocaloric materials combining organic and inorganic components with complementary properties, achieving enhanced thermodynamic efficiency through synergistic effects while maintaining solid-state operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes the pressure-temperature parameters and phase transition characteristics of barocaloric materials to maximize thermodynamic efficiency, operating near critical points where small pressure changes produce large entropy changes
4Reliability
If existing barocaloric materials are used, then phase transition is achieved, but entropy change is small
Solution Approach 1:
The invention designs composite materials with organic layers containing long alkyl chains that undergo cooperative phase transitions, producing large entropy changes through collective molecular reorganization while maintaining structural stability
5Productivity
If existing barocaloric materials are used, then cooling cycle is achieved, but mechanical durability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates composite structures where rigid inorganic layers provide mechanical strength and durability, while organic layers provide the necessary phase transition behavior, combining the advantages of both material types to achieve both cycling stability and mechanical robustness
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables efficient, environmentally friendly cooling and energy storage with large entropy changes and reversible phase transitions at relatively low pressures, overcoming the limitations of traditional cooling methods and existing barocaloric materials.
Implementation Method 1
applying compression to the composition to induce the organic layer to undergo an exothermic phase transition to an ordered state, releasing latent heat
Implementation Method 2
releasing latent heat
Implementation Method 3
removing the compression to allow the composition to revert to the disordered state
Implementation Method 4
the organic layer is between first and second inorganic layers
Implementation Method 5
includes a head group capable of hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding, and/or electrostatic interaction with a counterion
Implementation Method 6
includes a head group capable of hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding, and/or electrostatic interaction with a counterion
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides methods, compositions, and systems for barocaloric applications such as cooling, heating, and energy storage.