Alloy based fridges will run on 50% less energy

Washington, June 26 : Scientists have begun developing fridges that are powered by a 100% alloy, which will reduce their energy usage by 50%.

In the last 15 years, environmentalists have alerted fridge technology developers about the harmful side effects of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which is the refrigerant chemical.

But, alternative refrigerants require a lot more energy.

According to a report in ENN (Environmental News Network), European scientists now claim that they have found the alternative to both chemicals, a solution that will reduce your fridge's energy bill by half.

The scientists work on behalf of BASF, the chemicals company, and a Dutch foundation called Fundamental Research on Matter (FOM).

The alternative that these scientists have found uses electro magnetic fields.

They are basically pioneering technology based on magnetocaloric materials, which are a new class of refrigerants that would significantly reduce the negative impact of today's cooling systems on the environment.

Magnetocaloric materials could be highly efficient cooling technology. They are solid alloys and earlier research by the scientists has already proven that they are all set to be an attractive alternative for cooling fridges.

"The magnetocaloric materials warm up in a magnetic field and cool down when the field is removed. Theoretical considerations show an energy savings potential of up to fifty percent," according to the scientists.

Not only will the technology be applicable to fridges, but because of its compactness, it's likely that it can easily be installed in air conditioners, central heating systems and even in computers.

The technology, if it makes the commercial stages, will be staggeringly useful because it's estimated that 25% of our total energy consumption today is used for cooling applications, for instance in refrigerators and air conditioners.

ANI