Philippine Science Alumna Invents Refrigerant-Free Air Conditioner

A Philippine Science High School (PSHS) alumna might just revolutionize present day air conditioners after inventing an air conditioning technology that does not use a chemical refrigerant, and consumes low energy.

The Department of Science and Technology introduced Maria Yzabell Angel V. Palma and her technology during a press conference held in Quezon City. Palma is one of the top students of PSHS Bicol Region Campus Class 2018.

Palma invented the AirDisc Air Conditioning Technology, a system with a disc-shaped compressor based on low compression pressure and high volume of air molecules as refrigerant with very low energy consumption.

Existing air conditioning systems use piston or rotary compressors with high pressure and low volume with harmful hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as medium for cooling.

While, Palma’s technology uses “the air we breathe” as the cooling medium, which means it is safe to the consumers and to the environment.

She said she seeks to provide poor families, especially those who live in hot, humid places, the means to afford an air conditioning unit since her AirDisc AC Technology has low electricity consumption at 150 watts only. Palma also shared to media that some companies already showed interest on her technology.

For this invention, Palma was recognized by the International Federation of Inventors’ Association (IFIA) after being awarded by 10 organizations under their association: Leading Innovator Award from International Intellectual Property Network Forum (Malaysia); International Leadership Award from Eurobusiness, Haller (Poland); International Leadership Award from China Association of Invention (China); Leadership Excellence Award from MyRis (Malaysia); Leading Student Award from National Research Council of Thailand; Leading Innovator Award from Indonesian Innovation and Invention Promotion Association (Indonesia); International Leadership Award from World Invention Intellectual Property Associations (WIIPA) (Taiwan); Best Invention Award from WIIPA (Taiwan); Special Citation for the Best Invention from MyRIS (Malaysia); and International Best Young Inventor from Romanian Inventors Forum (Romania)

Meanwhile, the call for applicants for the PSHS 2018 National Competitive Examination (NCE) was announced during the press conference of the PSHS System management, led by Executive Director Lilia T. Habacon, Deputy Executive Director Dr. Rod Allan A. de Lara and Director Richard P. Burgos of the Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII). Various student achievers who won in various local and international competitions also presented their inventions.

PSHS is one of the leading science high schools in the Asia Pacific region. It operates under one system of governance and management, providing scholarships to exceptionally gifted Filipino students with high aptitude in science and mathematics. It aims to prepare globally-competitive Filipino scientists equipped with 21st century skills, imbued with the core values of truth, excellence, and service to the nation. Scholars benefit from the following privileges: Free tuition fee, free loan of textbooks, monthly stipend, uniform, transportation & living allowances for low income groups. PSHS has expanded to 16 strategically-places regional campuses all over the country.

PSHS is accepting applicants for the National Competitive Examination (NCE) for incoming Grade 7 students for school year 2019-2020. The examination date is scheduled on 20 October 2018. Deadline for submission of application is on 14 September 2018. For more details, cal (02) 939-7747 or visit www.pshs.edu.ph. (PIA-NCR)