A team of researchers led by LSU Physics Professor Shane Stadler has a patent pending on a breakthrough discovery they believe may make refrigeration and air conditioning more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Stadler and his team have discovered a magnetocaloric material that may change the energy industry, including air conditioning and food refrigeration, LSU says in a news release issued this morning. Stadler’s research focuses on the next generation of magnetic cooling technologies, which are simpler in design, quieter and more environmentally friendly than conventional compressed-gas systems currently used.
“The world refrigeration market is expected to increase by about $7 to 8 billion by 2018,” Stadler says in the news release, suggesting his breakthrough could have a significant economic impact, as well as an impact on the energy industry and environment.
LSU says a local group of entrepreneurs has expressed interest in the advanced technology. After further testing, researchers will look into developing commercialization opportunities utilizing it for the heating and cooling industry.
“LSU’s basic research into low temperature physics and materials science has potential applications in areas related to energy, electronics and the environment,” says Michael Cherry, chair and professor at the LSU Department of Physics and Astronomy. “Professor Stadler’s magnetocaloric materials program is an example of this research that appears to be directly relevant to energy development and Louisiana’s economy. It also provides excellent training opportunities for Louisiana’s students.”
