Credit: Voltcore
Voltcore, a Luxembourg-based smart materials and climate-tech startup, has announced the launch of "TargetHeat", a new generation of unidirectional heating materials.
As reported by Voltcore, TargetHeat provides rapid heating, using 40% less energy than the "best" solutions available today. The tecnology recently launched at the Batimat construction exhibition in Paris, France.
With heating systems accounting for 40% of global CO₂ emissions and high energy prices in Europe, TargetHeat aims to offer an efficient solution using advanced polymer films for superior heating performance. Voltcore said this technology not only reduces energy consumption but also reduces energy bills and fights climate change, achieving A-class energy efficiency and enabling integration across various sectors.
Engineered by Voltcore from cutting-edge smart materials, TargetHeat is designed for construction, smart home solutions or homeowners.
Leveraging advancements in material science, TargetHeat helps fight climate change through the new generation of unidirectional heating materials to ultimately economise energy and reduce CO₂ emissions, according to Voltcore.
In Luxembourg, 81% of household energy consumption is allocated to heating, the startup added. This figure significantly exceeds the EU average for space heating. Over the past year, gas prices in Luxembourg have surged, exacerbating energy costs. TargetHeat's innovative energy-efficient surface heating solution is aimed at supporting the country's commitment to sustainability and global initiatives to reduce CO₂ emissions, further solidifying Luxembourg's position as a leader in smart materials science and green technology.
One of the product's standout features, according to Voltcore, is rapid heating: for example, it heats up wood floor laminate 1 m2 surface from 20°C to 30°C in five minutes, consuming less than 50 Wh (compared to the most energy-effective carbon film solutions which need about an hour and 150Wh to reach the same conditions). After the desired temperature is reached the consumption of energy to maintain is up to 40% less than for current best-in-class solutions, noted Voltcore, adding that the system is "energy-efficient, minimising energy loss".
When paired with smart home systems, it reportedly optimises heating schedules for added efficiency and convenience. The combination of smart materials and intelligent systems could be even more energy-effective, according to Voltcore.
The startup added that the technology features "easy installation and maintenance" for an "easy seamless integration" in both new builds and renovations. The system can be integrated into nearly any type of flooring under the top layer, which can be put back in place after the installation. Moreover, the material can be integrated into pre-made flooring and insulation systems.
In terms of safety, TargetHeat's material automatically cuts off power in emergencies. Additionally, unlike traditional systems like air conditioners, radiators or air-to-air heat pumps, it maintains "healthier" indoor air by preventing its over-drying, with risks associated with respiratory and allergic issues reduced, noted Voltcore.
Recyclability is considered another strong point. TargetHeat's polymer-based materials incorporate recycled content to promote eco-friendly practices. The team said it was also developing a solution to ensure the full upcycling of the product made by Voltcore, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability from production to end-of-life.
TargetHeat can be applied in various sectors. The flagship product is designed to meet the diverse needs of the construction and building sector, with a particular focus on four key groups: floor-covering companies, smart home solution providers, modular houses having space limitations and looking for optimised solutions, and construction and renovation companies responsible for selecting building components, including heating systems.
Voltcore argued that homeowners stand to benefit most from TargetHeat's advanced technology - it reportedly cuts costs and helps homeowners save on bills, while supporting a sustainable future.
The launch of TargetHeat also marks a "significant step forward" for Luxembourg's status as a technological and innovation hub, reinforcing Luxembourg's leadership in smart materials science and green technology, concluded Voltcore.
