Lambertus Hesselink, Electrical Engineering; and Carlo Scalo, Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University

This project will first assess the feasibility of miniature thermoacoustic engines to convert waste heat from computers and other electronic devices. The researchers will then design a preliminary version of the device, which they think could recoup at least 20 percent of the wasted heat. If fully commercialized, such technology could save $6 million dollars in electricity per day in the United States alone.