British Engineer’s Touch-Button Self-Cooling Can Delivers Ice-Cold Beer in Seconds

World’s First Self-Cooling Can Could End Warm Drinks Forever
(Image: Prototype can with chilled walls triggered by a button)

There’s nothing worse than a warm drink at a picnic, festival, or beach day. Now, Welsh engineer James Vyse, a former bartender turned inventor, has created a solution: the world’s first commercially viable self-cooling can. Developed in his bedroom, the innovation could revolutionize how we enjoy beverages outdoors.

How It Works
The aluminum can, fully recyclable and 98% aluminum with 2% recyclable plastic, holds 350ml of liquid. Hidden within its walls is a narrow cavity filled with salt crystals. A button at the base releases water into the cavity, triggering an endothermic reaction when water meets salt. This instantly chills the can’s walls—no electricity or batteries needed.

(Image: James Vyse demonstrating the can’s button mechanism)

In tests, the prototype cooled from room temperature in seconds, maintaining a chill for 20-45 minutes depending on the environment. The hollow design also insulates against external heat. Vyse’s company, Delta H Innovations, aims to trial the cans in London this summer, with hopes of a 2026 launch.

Industry Buzz
Major brands like Coca-Cola, Carlsberg, and Suntory America have shown interest. Previous attempts, like Coca-Cola’s shelved project and the CO2-dependent Chillcan, failed due to cost or environmental concerns. Vyse’s eco-friendly approach—using salt and water—avoids pollutants and aligns with recycling goals.

Cost and Impact
The can may cost 10-20p more than standard ones, but Vyse emphasizes its value for outdoor use. “It lets consumers decide when to chill their drink,” he says. With 10 prototypes existing, the design is poised to transform festivals, hikes, and beach outings where refrigeration isn’t an option.

(Image: Cross-section showing insulated walls and reaction chamber)

The Future of Refreshment
Vyse envisions the can becoming a British global staple, bridging innovation with sustainability. “The first canned beer came from Wales—this is history repeating,” he told MailOnline. If trials succeed, ice-cold sips under the sun may soon be just a button-press away.

Key Benefits:

• No electricity or batteries
• Eco-friendly materials and reaction
• Stays cold up to 45 minutes
• Fully recyclable

(Word count: ~600)