Pascal Prepares Field Trials of Solid Refrigerants for Beverage Cooling

American startup Pascal, founded in 2023 on the basis of Harvard University research, announced on 21 October 2026 that barocaloric cooling — a technology based on solid refrigerants — is moving from the laboratory to industrial operation.

Operating principle and material properties

Barocaloric cooling uses solid materials that heat up and cool down when pressure changes. According to Pascal, these materials operate within the same pressure range as conventional refrigerants and are non-flammable, non-toxic, and PFAS-free. The company states that it has achieved efficiency comparable to a vapour-compression system for the same application.

Prototype and field trials

Pascal has completed development of a working refrigerator prototype and is preparing to install it at a facility of a multinational beverage producer, whose name is not disclosed. Field trials are expected to confirm anticipated improvements in energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The next stage is planned for early 2027.

Outlook and funding

The initial application is beverage cooling. Development plans include industrial chillers, process cooling, air-conditioning systems, and data centres. To support this path, the company announced it raised approximately $9.3 million in new funding and grants.

Photo: Irka Perez

Source: ZeroSottoZero