With the growing global concern for environmental protection and energy conservation, new energy refrigerants have become a hot topic. These new refrigerants are not only environmentally friendly but also help reduce energy consumption.
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are a commonly used type of new energy refrigerant. They do not contain chlorine and thus do not damage the ozone layer. Although HFCs are harmless to the ozone layer, they have a high global warming potential (GWP), which means they have a significant impact on climate change. Therefore, finding low-GWP alternatives has become a research hotspot.
Natural Refrigerants such as ammonia (NH3), carbon dioxide (CO2), and propane (R290) are favored for their low GWP and natural availability. These refrigerants are very effective in some applications, but they also have their own safety and operational challenges. For example, ammonia and carbon dioxide require specific safety measures and system designs, while propane requires special attention due to its flammability.
Hydrocarbons (HCs) such as isobutane (i-C4H10) and propane (R290) are also options for new energy refrigerants. They have a lower GWP and good thermodynamic properties, but their flammability also needs to be noted, which requires additional safety measures in the design and operation process.
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), although not as environmentally friendly as HFCs and HCs, are still used as transitional refrigerants for certain applications. HCFCs contain chlorine and damage the ozone layer, but due to their lower GWP, they still have a certain market during the phase-out process.
In general, the choice of new energy refrigerants depends on specific application requirements, cost-benefit analysis, as well as environmental and safety considerations. With the advancement of technology and the strengthening of environmental regulations, we expect more efficient and environmentally friendly refrigerants to be developed and applied.