By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
Harnessing Ancient Terracotta Techniques for Modern Cooling Solutions in India
In India's sweltering summer heat, the age old practice of using terracotta pots to chill water is inspiring innovative approaches to combat rising temperatures. Nandita, a cookbook author, turned to the traditional, matka to stay hydrated amid record high temperatures in Bengaluru, finding solace in its natural cooling properties.
The Traditional Use of Terracotta for Cooling Water
Terracotta, with its ability to absorb and evaporate water, has been utilized for centuries to naturally cool water in rural India.
Adapting Terracotta for Contemporary Cooling Needs
Now, as the nation grapples with extreme heatwaves, terracotta's ancient application is being reimagined for contemporary cooling needs.
1. Terracotta Cooling Towers
Monish Siripurapu, founder of CoolAnt, pioneered the use of terracotta in cooling towers to address heat related challenges faced by businesses. The Beehive cooling towers, inspired by the matka's cooling mechanism, utilize recycled water pumped over terracotta cones to cool the surrounding air through evaporation, providing relief in various settings across India.
2. Terracotta in Building Designs
Additionally, architectural firms like A Threshold are integrating terracotta into building designs to create passive cooling systems. Recycled terracotta screens inspired by traditional Indian architecture not only shade buildings but also promote natural ventilation and biodiversity, fostering a micro climate within homes while reducing reliance on artificial cooling methods. These initiatives showcase how ancient techniques can inspire sustainable solutions to modern climate challenges, emphasizing the timeless effectiveness of terracotta in cooling applications.