Solid-state elastocaloric or thermomagnetic material drives active refrigeration using waste heat rather than electric power inputs

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1141913

"world-1st, couples ultra-thin nickel-titanium shape-memory alloy films... 1st film converts thermal energy from waste heat or solar radiation stretching/ unloading 2nd film, triggering reversible crystal structure alteration acting as refrigerant generating cold air... 13°C elastocaloric change using thermal inputs as low as 86°C... highly sustainable alternative to traditional refrigerants... cooling examples: computer processors/ chips, automotive electronics, refrigeration... industrial waste-heat capture"

Related: A cooling device built to last: Sustainable refrigeration system maintains performance through one million cycles
https://techxplore.com/news/2026-09-cooling-device-built-sustainable-refrigeration.html