Cambridge Startup Targets Data Centers for Solid-State Cooling Alternative

Barocal, a Cambridge spin-out backed by $1 million in funding, is deploying barocaloric cooling—a solid-state technology using plastic crystals and pressure instead of refrigerant gases—in data centers first. Data center operators, seeking cost cuts and equipped with technical expertise, offer the fastest path to market. The technology promises 2–3 times better energy efficiency than conventional cooling systems.