Sign in to view
member only content

Spotted: A joint British-Spanish team of researchers has found a green alternative to the chemicals we use to keep refrigerators cool. The discovery could lead to less toxic waste and reduce energy consumption, according to the scientists.

Most refrigerators (and air conditioners) use toxic and flammable gases — hydrofluorocarbons and hydrocarbons (HFCs and HCs) — to stay work. Appliances compress and expand HFC and HCs to keep things cool.

The team achieved the same cooling affect using a solid alternative that is cheaper, more efficient and less toxic. Plastic crystals of neopentylglycol (NPG) cool when their microscopic structure is changed. The crystals are not really plastic — that term refers to their malleability. Their chemical makeup makes it easier to compress. NGP is already widely used for other purposes, including to make paints, polyesters and lubricants.

The team is currently working with Cambridge Enterprise to bring their findings to the commercial market.