Yplasma zaps the air to cool chips for data centers

Yplasma, a startup spun out of Spain’s space agency INTA, has developed a novel cooling device that uses plasma actuators—thin, flexible strips of copper carrying electrical current—to manipulate air without moving parts. This technology offers a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional fans, consuming about 1 watt compared to 3-4 watts for a small laptop fan, and its slim form factor allows it to fit into space-constrained electronics. Yplasma recently raised $2.5 million in seed funding led by Faber, with participation from SOSV, and will conduct research and development at SOSV’s Hax labs in Newark, New Jersey, and Madrid. Initially targeting wind turbines to improve airflow and reduce drag—potentially increasing electricity generation by 10-15%—Yplasma’s actuators can also generate heat to de-ice turbine blades, addressing a significant energy loss issue caused by ice buildup. While continuing work on wind turbine applications, the company has shifted focus toward