Overview

• The low-cost fiber membrane uses interconnected pores and capillary action to passively remove heat via evaporation.
• In laboratory tests, the membrane sustained heat fluxes exceeding 800 watts per square centimeter, setting a new benchmark for evaporative cooling.
• The technology could cut both energy consumption and water use in data center cooling, where temperature control can account for up to 40% of total power draw and global demand may double by 2030.
• The research team is refining membrane properties and developing cold plate prototypes to optimize performance before market rollout.
• Results published in Joule on June 13, 2025, were supported by the National Science Foundation and will be commercialized through a UC San Diego–backed startup.