Project title: Opportunities for Elastocaloric Cooling and Heating Technology in Space Applications
Type of project: International Project
Role: Contractor
Financing: European Space Agency ESA
Duration: 1.10.2025 – 1.10.2026
Laboratory: Laboratory for Modelling Machine Elements and Structures LAMEK
Project description:
In the SPACECOOL project, we are exploring new pathways for efficient and sustainable thermal management in space missions. Space poses extraordinary challenges – from extreme temperature fluctuations to vacuum and microgravity – where existing solutions such as heat pipes, compressor systems, and thermoelectric elements often face limitations: they are heavy, inefficient, and rely on environmentally harmful gases.
Elastocaloric technology offers a completely new approach. It is based on advanced shape-memory alloys that release or absorb heat when mechanically stressed. These solid-state materials are efficient and environmentally friendly, making them ideal for the future of both space and terrestrial applications.
The aim of the project is to study the thermal needs of different space systems – from nanosatellites to upcoming lunar bases – and to evaluate the suitability of elastocaloric materials under real space conditions. Based on these analyses, we will develop technologies and concepts of elastocaloric modules for space applications, create a numerical model to benchmark them against existing technologies, and prepare a roadmap for further development toward prototypes and their use in real missions.
This project will deliver the first comprehensive study of opportunities for elastocaloric technology in space. Its results will also extend to Earth, as elastocalorics represent one of the most promising green technologies for energy-efficient cooling and heating of the future.