In the scorching heat of summer, we often rely on energy-intensive cooling solutions, such as air conditioners and air coolers, to make our homes bearable. However, there is an innovative alternative that harnesses the power of nature to passively cool buildings, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. This alternative is known as ‘Cool Bricks,’ a breakthrough concept developed by Emerging Objects, a San Francisco Bay-based 3D Printing MAKE-tank. These 3D printed bricks use the principles of evaporative cooling, a time-tested method for cooling, to effectively lower indoor temperatures. In this comprehensive and educational blog post, we will explore the technology behind Cool Bricks, probe the science of evaporative cooling, discuss their applications in the construction industry, and examine the environmental benefits of this sustainable cooling solution.
Cool Bricks Technology
The Ingenious Concept of Evaporative Cooling
Evaporative cooling is a natural process that has been employed for centuries in various forms to cool buildings. At its core, it involves introducing water vapor into the air, which results in a reduction of ambient temperature. The fundamental idea behind evaporative cooling can be likened to our body’s own cooling mechanism: when we sweat, the heat of vaporization draws heat away from our skin, cooling us down. People in hot climates have long utilized this principle, often through structures like the Maucatese Evaporative system.
In the Maucatese Evaporative system, a wooden lattice or ‘mashrabiya’ covers windows, while a porous, water-filled ceramic jar sits within it. As air passes through the lattice, the water inside the jar evaporates, releasing cool air into the room. This ancient cooling method inspired the creation of Cool Bricks.
The Principle behind Cool Bricks
Cool Bricks are designed to bring the benefits of evaporative cooling to modern construction. These bricks, made from 3D printed porous ceramic, are set in mortar, and they function as reservoirs for water. Each brick is akin to a sponge, capable of absorbing and retaining water. When hot and dry air flows through these bricks, the air absorbs water through evaporation, leading to a significant drop in temperature. Consequently, the cooled air is introduced into the interior spaces, effectively reducing indoor temperatures.
Cool Bricks Arrangement
One of the standout features of Cool Bricks is their modular and interlocking design. This design allows them to be stacked together to create large screens or walls. The 3-dimensional lattice structure of these bricks forms a robust bond when set in mortar, ensuring structural integrity. Furthermore, the unique shape of the bricks creates shaded surfaces on the walls, providing protection from direct sunlight. This feature significantly enhances the cooling performance of Cool Bricks, making them a sustainable and efficient cooling solution.
Potential Applications in Hot and Dry Climates
The applications of Cool Bricks are particularly promising in regions characterized by hot and arid climates, such as the Middle East and Western Australia. In such areas, where high temperatures are a constant challenge, Cool Bricks offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative for cooling homes and buildings. Rather than relying on power-hungry air conditioning systems and incurring substantial electricity bills, residents can simply water their Cool Bricks to enjoy a pleasant and cool indoor environment.
The potential impact of Cool Bricks in desert environments is substantial. These bricks are capable of retaining and releasing a considerable amount of water vapor, making them a practical and sustainable solution for cooling. However, it’s worth noting that Cool Bricks may not be as effective in regions with already high humidity levels, where evaporative cooling is less efficient.
Aesthetic Integration of Cool Bricks
While Cool Bricks represent an exciting innovation in building materials, they do have some limitations. These bricks are ceramic-based, which may make them less durable and secure than traditional bricks. This could pose a challenge when considering their use for internal walls, given their brittle nature. However, this limitation opens up the opportunity to incorporate Cool Bricks as a design element in construction projects.
One creative approach is to intersperse Cool Bricks between regular bricks or use them as an aesthetic accent. This way, you can enjoy the cooling benefits without compromising on safety and security. Cool Bricks can become a compelling architectural feature, enhancing both the functionality and visual appeal of a building.
Environmental Benefits of Cool Bricks
Reduced Energy Consumption
One of the significant advantages of Cool Bricks is their potential to reduce energy consumption in the construction industry. Traditional cooling methods, such as air conditioning, demand a substantial amount of electricity. In contrast, Cool Bricks rely on the natural process of evaporative cooling, which consumes significantly less energy. By adopting Cool Bricks in construction projects, we can contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, making a positive impact on our environment.
Sustainable Cooling Solution
Cool Bricks align with the principles of sustainability and green building practices. Their ability to cool buildings passively using water as a cooling agent reduces the need for energy-intensive cooling systems. This, in turn, decreases the carbon footprint of buildings, making them more eco-friendly. As the world strives to combat climate change, sustainable solutions like Cool Bricks play a vital role in reducing our environmental impact.
Water Conservation
Cool Bricks also promote water conservation. In regions with limited water resources, the use of these bricks can be a smart choice. They efficiently use water for cooling, and the water absorbed by the bricks is released into the air through evaporation. This not only cools the building but also ensures that the water is not wasted, making it a sustainable and responsible choice.
Emerging Objects and TETHON 3D Collaboration
The development of Cool Bricks was made possible through the collaboration of Emerging Objects with TETHON 3D, an Omaha, Nebraska-based company. TETHON 3D specializes in manufacturing ceramic powders and photocurable ceramic and iron polymers for 3D printing. Their focus on ceramic materials results in high-quality materials suitable for various industrial, consumer, and design applications.
The collaboration between Emerging Objects and TETHON 3D highlights the significance of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing innovative construction technologies. By combining expertise in 3D printing and advanced materials, these companies have paved the way for the development of Cool Bricks and other groundbreaking solutions.
Conclusion
Cool Bricks represent a remarkable innovation in sustainable construction materials, offering a solution that leverages the natural process of evaporative cooling. As this technology continues to evolve and mature, it holds the potential to revolutionize the way we cool our buildings, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Cool Bricks are not only an efficient cooling solution but also a testament to the power of innovation in the construction industry. As we move towards a more sustainable future, the adoption of Cool Bricks and similar technologies will play a pivotal role in reducing our environmental impact and promoting green building practices. By integrating Cool Bricks into construction projects, we can create spaces that are not only comfortable but also kind to our planet.