Science & Technology
Here Comes the Trillion-Dollar Active Cooling Market
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It is a no-brainer that global warming already upon us and it creates massive markets for active (powered) cooling. But there is even more ahead, including many new forms of battery, medical, microchip and other active cooling. It is all scoped in the new 285-page Zhar Research report “Active Cooling: Large New Materials, Systems Markets 2023-2043” with 98 new infograms, tables and images, 28 forecasts 2023-2043 and six SWOT appraisals. Because the pace is increasing, a high proportion of the inputs for this report come from 2023
Creating new markets for active cooling, the authors anticipate future higher-power, more-compact data centers, planned massive base stations for 6G communication, large cryogenic air facilities for delayed electricity and much else. Predicted one kilowatt processor chips will demand precision active cooling and there is even active cooling arriving in smartphones.
New cooling challenges include more people living in deserts as population rises and desertification increases. Emerging countries are mostly tropical. They demand far more refrigerators, freezers and air conditioning. The now-rapid adoption of electric vehicles land, water and air demands climate control and sophisticated active cooling of battery, motors and power electronics.
Another megatrend is the move to renewable energy – mostly solar and wind – with chronic intermittency compensated by TWh levels of energy storage, increasingly 6 hours to seasonal Long Duration Energy Storage LDES. Here options with potentially much lower Levelised Cost of Storage LCOS than batteries become important. They include compressed air, liquid air and maybe hydrogen for electricity-to-electricity storage. Together with the giant energy storage batteries for grids, they all need a great deal of cooling. Indeed, for the lowest temperatures, cryogenics demand increases for liquid air LDES, the hydrogen economy, MRI scanners, skin cancer treatments and many other emerging medical applications. It will also enable more superconductivity in engineering.
Wherever you look, new, large markets for active cooling materials and systems are arriving. The largest expenditure will be on the strongest forms such as direct liquid cooling of structural batteries in those electric vehicles but also data centers.
The incumbent vapor-compression and piped-liquid cooling continue to involve global warming, flammability, leakage, size, cost, location and toxicity issues though to a declining extent. In particular, improved refrigerants are rapidly being adopted. However, in taking the necessary twenty year view, the report reveals that breakthroughs such as solid-state cooling will create many billion-dollar companies in an active market that will exceed one trillion dollars within twenty years. That is even after forecasting a global recession crimping initial sales growth. Solid state active cooling arrivals will include electrocaloric cooling and thermoelectrics reinvented, both closely analysed.
Making pumped immersion cooling a mainstream success is another huge opportunity, given that the newer needs are often poorly met by currently-popular technologies. Meanwhile, vapor-compression serves around 75% of value market despite considerable shortcomings. Its use rises with the air conditioner, chiller, freezer and refrigerator markets.
Dr Peter Harrop, CEO of Zhar Research advises,
“Many of the gaps in the market are rather nuanced. For example, a high proportion of formulations in the research pipeline involve toxic precursors and, during wrongful disposal or leakage, toxic by-products. For example, most of the electrocaloric materials researched involve lead or fluoropolymers. Other forms of caloric cooling and proposed electrochemical cooling rarely have that problem. We need more emphasis on solid state cooling and cleaner materials. In particular, the rapid adoption of refrigerants of lower global warming potential GWP needs to be matched by being non-flammable not just less flammable. On the other hand, ethylene carbonate could actually be carbon-negative because you produce it by using carbon dioxide as an input.”
He sees wrong research emphasis with thermoelectrics noting,
“Thermoelectrics are being reinvented but most researchers seek to optimise the figure of merit. Sadly that can lead to the opposite of the required low-cost, high-power (rather than high power density), green systems that much of the market so desperately needs.”
He adds,
“Beyond that, of the plethora of new active cooling options arriving, from switchable optofluidics to chip immersion cooling, industrialists must identify which will remain little more than party tricks and which will be the basis of billion-dollar new operations. They must invest early in the best ones.”
The image gives a Zhar Research estimation of the active-cooling hardware market in 2043. Thermoelectric coolers are a technology rather than an application but they largely represent cooling of increasingly-popular lasers, scientific instruments and other applications not otherwise represented. Chillers are large scale heat removal units typically involving vapor compression and heat absorption. The image is taken from the comprehensive Zhar Research report “Active Cooling: Large New Materials, Systems Markets 2023-2043.”
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Science & Technology
Breakthroughs and Challenges: The Latest in Scientific Advancements
A roundup of the latest scientific advancements, exploring breakthroughs and the challenges that lie ahead.
In a notable development, Dr. Emily Carter, a leading researcher at the National Institute of Health, announced a significant breakthrough in the field of gene therapy. On September 10, 2026, she revealed that her team successfully edited genes in living organisms to eliminate hereditary diseases. This advancement holds the potential to revolutionize medical treatment, offering hope to millions suffering from genetic disorders. However, it also raises ethical concerns about the extent of human genetic modification and its long-term impacts.
Simultaneously, the European Space Agency (ESA) has made strides in space exploration with the launch of its latest satellite, Euclid. Launched on September 8, 2026, Euclid aims to map the universe’s dark matter and dark energy, key components that constitute most of the cosmos. This mission could unravel the mysteries of the universe’s expansion and provide insights into the fundamental nature of existence. The ESA emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in this endeavor, as understanding dark matter and energy requires global scientific cooperation.
In the realm of renewable energy, SolarTech Innovations reported a breakthrough in solar panel efficiency on September 12, 2026. Their new technology purportedly increases the energy conversion rate by 25%, potentially transforming the solar energy industry. This advancement could accelerate the shift towards sustainable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, questions remain about the scalability of this technology and its economic viability for widespread adoption.
Meanwhile, the agricultural sector witnessed a milestone with AgriBio’s development of drought-resistant crops. Announced on September 7, 2026, these genetically engineered plants could enhance food security in regions prone to extreme weather conditions. The company states that these crops can withstand prolonged periods without water, ensuring stable yields. Critics, however, caution about the ecological implications and the potential for unintended consequences on biodiversity.
Lastly, the tech industry is abuzz with the unveiling of QuantumNext’s quantum computing system. Revealed on September 11, 2026, this system reportedly performs calculations at unprecedented speeds, paving the way for advancements in fields like cryptography and complex data analysis. While the potential applications are vast, experts debate the readiness of existing infrastructure to support such technology and the security challenges it may pose.
These scientific advancements highlight the dynamic nature of innovation and the diverse challenges accompanying progress. Each breakthrough presents a spectrum of opportunities and ethical dilemmas that require careful consideration. As these developments unfold, stakeholders from various sectors must engage in dialogue to navigate the complexities they entail.
Looking forward, the scientific community faces the task of addressing the practical and ethical questions these innovations raise. Continued research, open discourse, and policy-making will be crucial in harnessing the benefits of these advancements while mitigating their risks. The next few months will likely see increased scrutiny and discussion as these technologies move from the laboratory to real-world applications.
Science & Technology
Momentum Builds to Curb AI Development Amid Safety Concerns
Tech leaders advocate for slowing AI progress to mitigate risks and ensure safety.
On September 13, 2026, Elon Musk made headlines once more, but this time it wasn’t about electric cars or space exploration. Musk, along with OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, has taken a stand urging for a slowdown in the rapid development of artificial intelligence. The trio’s call to action reflects a burgeoning movement within the technology community. The aim is to ensure that AI advancement does not outpace the necessary safety measures that must be in place to protect society. Musk, known for his outspoken concerns regarding AI, has been vocal about the potential existential threats posed by unchecked AI development. His stance is not without precedent. In past years, he has been an advocate for AI regulation, emphasizing the importance of establishing robust safety protocols. Sam Altman shares this concern. As a key figure in AI innovation, Altman’s support for decelerating AI progress highlights the industry’s internal awareness of its own vulnerabilities. Altman has been instrumental in shaping AI discussions, both as a developer and a policymaker. His involvement underscores a critical shift in perspective among those who once championed AI’s limitless potential.
Dario Amodei’s call for a slowdown adds another layer of urgency. As CEO of Anthropic, Amodei’s insights into AI’s capabilities are profound. He has long advocated for responsible AI development, emphasizing research into AI safety and alignment. His company, Anthropic, is at the forefront of AI safety research, making his voice particularly influential. Amodei’s concerns are grounded in the belief that AI systems need to be designed with alignment and transparency as core principles. The consensus among these leaders is clear. The pace of AI development must be moderated to prevent potential societal disruptions. The public discourse around AI safety has evolved significantly over the past few years. Initially, concerns were often dismissed as speculative or alarmist. However, as AI systems become more integrated into daily life, their impact is undeniable. From autonomous vehicles to intelligent personal assistants, AI technologies influence countless aspects of modern existence. The rapid integration has outpaced regulatory frameworks, leaving gaps that could potentially be exploited.
This movement to slow AI development is gaining traction within the tech community. It reflects a deeper understanding of the potential risks and ethical considerations that come with advanced AI systems. Industry leaders are increasingly aware of their responsibility to mitigate these risks. There is a growing consensus that more comprehensive safety measures and regulatory oversight are necessary. The call for a slowdown is not a demand to halt innovation. Rather, it is a plea for a more deliberate approach to AI development. The goal is to establish a regulatory framework that prioritizes safety, ethical considerations, and long-term societal impact. This approach seeks to ensure that AI technologies are developed responsibly and with foresight. The motivation behind this push is multifaceted. At its core is the desire to prevent unintended consequences that could arise from unchecked AI advancement. These include potential job displacement, privacy concerns, and the risk of AI systems being used for malicious purposes. The tech industry is increasingly aware that the societal implications of AI are vast and complex. There is a recognition that addressing these challenges requires collaboration across sectors and disciplines.
The momentum to slow AI development also reflects a shift in how technology leaders view their role in society. There is a growing acknowledgment that technological innovation must be balanced with ethical responsibility. This recognition is driving the call for more stringent safety protocols and regulatory oversight. As the debate around AI continues, the voices advocating for caution are becoming more prominent. The movement is gaining momentum, supported by influential figures and organizations committed to ensuring that AI development proceeds safely and responsibly. The challenge now is translating this momentum into actionable policies and frameworks. Governments and regulatory bodies must work closely with industry leaders to develop comprehensive guidelines that address the unique challenges posed by AI. This collaboration is essential to fostering innovation while safeguarding societal interests. The path forward requires a collective effort to balance progress with prudence. As AI continues to evolve, the need for thoughtful and responsible development becomes increasingly critical. The calls to slow down AI development are a testament to the industry’s commitment to navigating this complex terrain with care.
The journey ahead is not without challenges. Implementing effective regulatory measures will require cooperation and consensus among diverse stakeholders. However, the growing momentum to address AI safety concerns offers hope for a future where technological advancement is aligned with societal well-being. As industry leaders and policymakers work together, there is potential to shape a future where AI technologies enhance, rather than disrupt, the fabric of society. The commitment to responsible AI development is key to ensuring that AI technologies are harnessed for the greater good. This forward-thinking approach will be crucial in defining the next chapter of AI innovation. The momentum to slow down AI development is more than a precautionary measure. It is a strategic decision to prioritize safety, ethics, and long-term impact. As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, the focus on responsible development will remain at the forefront. The future of AI depends on the choices made today. By embracing a more measured approach, the tech community can pave the way for a future where AI serves humanity’s best interests.
Science & Technology
Quantum Computing Breakthrough: Data Security Implications
MIT’s new quantum algorithm could revolutionize data processing, posing significant challenges for current cryptographic systems. This article explores the implications for data security and potential solutions to counteract quantum threats.
The recent breakthrough in quantum computing by researchers at MIT marks a pivotal moment in the field of data security. On August 19, 2026, Nature published the details of a new quantum algorithm capable of processing data at speeds previously unimaginable. While this innovation holds enormous potential for advancing machine learning and other computational fields, it simultaneously presents a formidable challenge to the current cryptographic systems relied upon to safeguard sensitive information.
At the core of contemporary data security is the reliance on encryption techniques that depend on the complexity of certain mathematical problems, such as the factoring of large numbers, which are currently infeasible for classical computers to solve within a practical timeframe. However, quantum computers, with their ability to perform calculations exponentially faster than traditional machines, threaten to render these encryption methods obsolete. This development could have profound implications for sectors that prioritize data security, including finance, healthcare, and government, where sensitive data is at risk of exposure.
The immediate concern for cybersecurity experts is the potential for quantum computers to crack widely used encryption protocols, such as RSA and ECC, which form the backbone of secure internet communications. The computational power unleashed by quantum algorithms could theoretically decrypt encrypted data in a fraction of the time required by classical computers, leaving digital communications vulnerable to interception and exploitation.
In response to this looming threat, researchers and industry experts are actively exploring the development of quantum-resistant algorithms. These algorithms are designed to withstand the capabilities of quantum computing, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data even in a post-quantum world. Efforts in this direction include the study of lattice-based cryptography, hash-based signatures, and multivariate polynomial equations as potential foundations for secure encryption systems.
The urgency to develop and implement quantum-resistant cryptography is underscored by the rapid pace of advancements in quantum technology. Tech companies, governments, and academic institutions are investing heavily in research to safeguard their data infrastructures against quantum threats. The transition to quantum-resistant systems, however, is not without its challenges. It requires a comprehensive overhaul of existing cryptographic frameworks and widespread adoption across industries, a process that demands both time and resources.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of quantum computing in fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, and materials science cannot be overlooked. The same capabilities that pose a threat to data security also offer the promise of unprecedented advancements in computational power, enabling breakthroughs that were previously beyond reach.
As the world stands on the brink of a quantum revolution, the dual-edged nature of this technological leap is clear. While the security of our digital world faces new threats, the opportunity for innovation and progress is equally profound. The path forward will require a concerted effort to balance the risks and rewards of quantum computing, ensuring that the transformative potential of this technology is harnessed responsibly and securely.
In the coming years, as quantum technologies continue to evolve, the focus will be on developing robust standards for quantum-resistant cryptography and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to navigate this new frontier. The race to secure our digital future in the face of quantum capabilities is not just a technical challenge but a strategic imperative that will shape the landscape of cybersecurity for decades to come.
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