ScienceSeptember 1, 2026
elastocaloric
ih-LAS-toh-kuh-LOR-ik
Definition
Refers to a cooling technology or effect that relies on materials, typically shape-memory alloys, which change temperature when mechanical stress is applied or released.
Etymology
The word is a modern technical compound formed from 'elasto-', derived from 'elastic' (from Greek 'elastikos' meaning flexible or drawing), and 'caloric' (from Latin 'calor' meaning heat).
In the news
The article discusses an innovative cooling system that uses an elastocaloric process to generate cold by leveraging waste heat, eliminating the need for traditional electricity-driven compressors.
August research roundup: 7 cool science stories we almost missed
Read the full article ↗Ars Technica