Advanced thermal switches play a pivotal role in efficiently managing heat transfer in intricate thermal management systems. Traditionally, electrochemical thermal switches have faced limitations due to insufficient performance levels, hindering their broader application across the electronics, energy, and waste heat recovery industries.
A groundbreaking study spearheaded by Professor Hiromichi Ohta from Hokkaido University’s Research Institute for Electronic Science introduces an innovative method utilizing cerium oxide (CeO2) thin films as the primary component of these thermal switches. This approach offers an efficient and technology/” title=”Revolutionizing Fiber Recycling: Epson and HKRITA Join Forces to Develop Innovative Dry Fiber Technology”>eco-friendly alternative to existing technologies, with results published in the journal Science Advances.
The researchers demonstrated that the performance parameters of CeO2-based thermal switches surpass previously established records. According to Professor Ohta, “Our novel device achieves an on/off thermal conductivity ratio of 5.8 alongside a switching width measured at 10.3 W/m·K—setting a fresh standard for electrochemical thermal switches.” The minimal state (off) exhibits a conductivity of 2.2 W/m·K; however, upon oxidation (on-state), this figure significantly escalates to 12.5 W/m·K—a remarkable increase indicating substantial operational capacity.
One striking advantage associated with this new technology is its use of cerium oxide—an economically feasible and environmentally friendly material abundant within the Earth’s crust. Unlike traditional models reliant on rare or high-cost substances, CeO2 stands out as a sustainable choice that diminishes both costs and environmental impact associated with heat management solutions.
The emergence of CeO2-based thermals marks a crucial development in temperature regulation technology with extensive potential across various sectors including electronic cooling systems and renewable energy applications. These innovative switches are utilized not only in modern equipment like thermal shutters but also enhance infrared heat transfer management while maximizing waste heat recovery efforts—all contributing toward greater energy efficiency.
Additional insights can be found within:
Ahrong Jeong et al., “High-performance solid-state electrochemical thermal switches featuring earth-abundant cerium oxide,” published in Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ads6137
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Hokkaido University
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Enhanced performance of cerium oxide-based switch technology propels advancements in temperature control methods (2025, January 2)
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