But Dr Zheludev has found that a similar effect can be achieved by keeping the temperature stable and using a beam of light to manipulate gallium's metallic nature.
The rate of greenhouse gas emissions is rising and we're rapidly approaching the date by which science suggests they need to peak if there's to be a reasonable chance of keeping the temperature rise under 2C.
The USDA is just as concerned about keeping processed eggs that move from a packing facility to a store shelf to the domestic fridge at a consistent temperature.