Samsung Electronics announced on August 24 that its Next-Generation Peltier Cooling Technology research, conducted in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, has been recognized as one of the top 100 innovative technologies in the 2025 Research and Development (R&D) 100 Awards, hosted by R&D World Magazine.
Established in 1963, the R&D 100 Awards are a prestigious global accolade that annually recognizes the 100 most groundbreaking scientific and technological advancements. Often dubbed the Oscar of Academic Innovation or the Nobel Prize of Engineering, this award carries significant weight in the scientific community.
R&D World Magazine lauded the Samsung Research Life Solutions Team and Johns Hopkins University’s researchers for their world-first development of a high-performance thin-film Peltier semiconductor device using nanotechnology. The team successfully demonstrated a cutting-edge Peltier refrigerator utilizing this innovation, earning them the award.
The research team introduced a revolutionary production process for semiconductor thin-film deposition, achieving a remarkable 75% improvement in cooling efficiency compared to conventional refrigerants. This breakthrough also enabled significant miniaturization and weight reduction. The team’s findings were published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications in May.
Peltier cooling technology represents an eco-friendly, non-chemical cooling method that operates without refrigerants and allows for rapid, precise temperature control. Its potential applications span various industries, including home appliances, semiconductors, medical devices, automotive electronics, and data centers, attracting considerable attention from experts.
Lee Joon-Hyun, Executive Vice President and Head of the Life Solutions Team at Samsung Research, stated that they are deeply honored to receive the globally esteemed R&D 100 Award, which evaluates commercially viable scientific technologies. Further noting that the recognition of our next-generation Peltier cooling technology for both its innovation and practicality is particularly meaningful. Samsung Electronics plans to continue its commitment to developing pioneering technologies that will shape the future through ongoing research and development efforts.