University of Bayreuth, Press Release No. 83/2022 - 24 May 2022
New Bayreuth ERC project: Optimized films from recycled plastic waste reduce energy consumption for cooling
Reducing energy consumption caused by cooling systems and reducing plastic waste in the environment are key requirements for a sustainable economy. In a research project on novel functional films, Bayreuth-based physical chemist Prof. Dr. Markus Retsch aims to tackle both problems simultaneously: In the future, plastic waste is to be processed into large-area films that can cool without the need to supply energy from outside. The project is funded by the Proof of Concept Grants programme of the European Research Council (ERC) with around 150,000 euros.
Passive daytime cooling does not absorb solar radiation and emits thermal energy into space. Materials with passive cooling properties could be used on awnings, blinds or roofs. Picture: Daniela Leitner.
The reflective inside of chip bags can be used to develop materials for passive daytime cooling. Photo: Dominik Benke.
Dr. Qimeng Song and Prof. Markus Retsch (from left) developed the project idea for CoolChips. Together, they now want to put the idea into practice. Photo: Dominik Benke.