Magnetic fridge increases efficiency

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a material that gives a whole new complexion to the term 'fridge magnet'. When this alloy is placed in a magnetic field, it gets colder. The researchers think that their material - a blend of cobalt, manganese, silicon and germanium - could help to usher in a new type of refrigerator that is up to 40 percent more energy-efficient than conventional models. Given how much energy is consumed by domestic and industrial refrigeration, that could have a significant environmental payoff.

Source: msm.cam.ac.ukAdded: 7 June 2006