An Alternative to Air Conditioning

A team of scientists has developed a technology that could replace traditional air conditioning systems while cutting energy requirements by half. Dubbed Cold Tube, it consists of a system of walls and/or ceiling panels through which cold water is circulated. The walls essentially absorb radiant heat directly from a person without needing to cool the airspace.

While cooling panels have been around for decades, the Cold Tube approach is unique because it requires no dehumidification. An airtight membrane within the panels repels humidity to prevent condensation. Because it doesn’t work on the basis of cooling the air, the system has many other advantages, too. It can be used indoors even with the windows open, eliminating the problems associated with recirculating air and the germs it carries — a feature that has become even more important during this time of COVID-19.

The technology can also be adapted for outdoor installations such as restaurants and markets. In one outdoor demonstration in Singapore last year, 55 participants reported feeling comfortable or cool even with an ambient air temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). The team hopes to unveil a commercially viable product in about two years.