Scientists Create a Programmable Heat Switch

The Quark Side - Quantum Physics Podcast · Sep 4, 2026 · 22m · transcript

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking device that can control the direction of heat flow, breaking a long-standing rule of thermal physics.

By combining magneto-optical materials with a phase-change layer, the system can switch, store, and direct thermal radiation much like a computer chip manages information. The breakthrough could transform smart thermal management, infrared sensing, and next-generation energy technologies.

This episode includes AI-generated content.