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UT Dallas Unveils Eco-Friendly Thermal Battery for Buildings

2/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

University of Texas at Dallas researchers developed a wood-based phase-change material that acts as a thermal battery to regulate building temperatures without electricity.
It absorbs heat by day and releases it at night, reducing air conditioning needs.
The material withstood over 1,000 heating and cooling cycles while remaining leak-free.
Researchers collaborate with national laboratories to refine and commercialize this energy-efficient building solution.
Findings were published in Materials Today Energy.

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Story summary

University of Texas at Dallas researchers developed a wood-based phase-change material that acts as a thermal battery to regulate building temperatures without electricity.
It absorbs heat by day and releases it at night, reducing air conditioning needs.
The material withstood over 1,000 heating and cooling cycles while remaining leak-free.
Researchers collaborate with national laboratories to refine and commercialize this energy-efficient building solution.
Findings were published in Materials Today Energy.