News -
March 2025
Dynalene Presents at ITherm 2024 in Denver Colorado, May 2024
Dynalene R&D Manager Dr. Sreya Dutta presented her research on low electrical conductivity coolants as alternatives to perfluorinated fluids for electric cooling applications at the 2024 ITherm conference. The event was held on May 28-31 in Denver, Colorado.
Presentation Overview: Alternatives to PFAS in Electronics Cooling
The presentation, titled “Low Electrical Conductivity Glycol Coolants as Alternative to Perfluorinated Fluids for Electronics Cooling Applications,” addressed the growing industry need to replace “forever chemicals” such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). While long-chain organo-fluoro coolants have historically been popular for their non-flammability and dielectric stability, increasing environmental and health regulations are driving companies to seek greener alternatives.
Dr. Dutta, alongside co-authors Carter Prokesch and Dr. Satish Mohapatra, highlighted Dynalene LC—a 55% glycol-water mixture—as a highly viable replacement. Key advantages presented include:
- Exceptional Thermal Properties: Significantly higher thermal conductivity and heat capacity compared to traditional fluorinated liquids.
- Safety and Availability: Non-flammable, inexpensive, and widely available.
- Low Electrical Conductivity: When paired with a deionizing/ion-exchange cartridge, the glycol-water solution maintains conductivity below 5 µS/cm (and often below 1 µS/cm), limiting the chances of thermal events in case of spills.
Key Research Findings on Ion Exchange Resins
A significant portion of the research focused on the interaction between the glycol-water coolant and mixed-bed ion exchange resins under various thermal conditions. The team found that while mixed bed resins effectively keep conductivity levels well below the required threshold across a continuous usage range (-25°C to 93°C), extended exposure to high temperatures can affect resin capacity due to thermal degradation and acidic breakdown products.
The successful demonstration of this technology proves that maintaining low electrical conductivity in aqueous coolants is scalable and practical, paving the way for more sustainable thermal management in data centers, electric vehicles, and medical devices.