Scientists adjust heat flow properties of materials dynamically for more efficient energy-saving technology devices
The University of Minnesota has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of thermal management, publishing their findings in the prestigious journal Nature Communications. A team led by the university, in collaboration with researchers Baowen Li and Xiaojia Wang, has developed a new method for tuning the thermal conductivity of materials, particularly lanthanum strontium cobaltite, a material commonly used in fuel cells.
This innovative approach opens up potential device applications, as it provides a way to turn heat flow on and off, similar to a switch controlling the flow of electricity. The team's method utilizes electrolyte gating, a less explored area in controlling thermal properties of materials.
Electrolyte gating is a powerful technique that involves driving ions to the surface of the material. By applying a low voltage to the lanthanum strontium cobaltite devices fabricated using this process, the team was able to manipulate the material's thermal conductivity.
The tuning range achieved by the team is the highest ever recorded among one-step processes in the field. This record-high tuning of thermal conductivity promises effective thermal management and energy consumption in electronic devices. A well-designed and functioning thermal management system, enabled by this research, would improve user experience and make devices more durable.
Xiaojia Wang, co-corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of controlling thermal conductivity for daily life and industry. The results of the research established low-power, continuously tunable thermal conductivity over an impressive range.
The research was conducted at the University of Minnesota Materials Research Science and Engineering Center and the Minnesota Nano Center. Part of the research was supported by the NSF through its National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure, and the U.S. National Science Foundation also provided support. Chris Leighton's lab, specializing in materials synthesis, was also involved in the research.
This new method not only improves the thermal management of existing devices but also opens the door for potential device applications, making electronic devices more efficient and user-friendly. The team's discovery is a significant step forward in the field of thermal management and promises a brighter future for electronic devices.
