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Principal Investigator : Dr Eliane Bsaibess
This project investigates the electrocaloric effect in solid and liquid materials as a sustainable, solid-state solution for thermal management in electronic devices and cooling systems. Effective temperature regulation is essential for enhancing the reliability and longevity of electronics. The electrocaloric effect—where materials exhibit a reversible temperature change under an applied electric field—offers a promising alternative to conventional refrigerant-based cooling, particularly in polar dielectric materials near phase transitions.
The research aims to develop high-performance, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable cooling technologies by advancing the understanding and application of electrocaloric materials. While previous studies have highlighted their potential, challenges remain in optimizing material properties and device-level integration for real-world deployment.
In addition to established ceramics and thin films, this project explores the emerging potential of ferroelectric liquid crystals [1, 2]. Their rapid, tunable phase transitions and anisotropic behavior under electric fields make them ideal for compact and adaptive thermal control systems. The project will focus on enhancing the structural, electrical, and thermal properties of these materials through microstructure control, doping, and interface engineering.
A key component involves developing a high-precision experimental setup to measure polarization–electric field (P–E) hysteresis, essential for quantifying electrocaloric performance and evaluating energy losses. The setup will accommodate high-voltage operation across various material systems and enable accurate assessment of phase transition dynamics and breakdown thresholds.
Ultimately, the project aims to fabricate and validate a prototype device demonstrating efficient, refrigerant-free solid-state cooling. Combining material design, advanced characterization, and thermodynamic modeling, this research will contribute to the development of scalable electrocaloric technologies aligned with global sustainability goals.
info@sorbone.apps.plana.ae
