Introduction to hydrofluoro-olefin alternatives for high global warming potential hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants1

Abstract

This article is an introduction to low global warming potential refrigerants, particularly halogenated olefins and, more specifically, fluorinated propene isomers. A summary of fluorinated propene isomer-based blends (AC-1, DP-1, Fluid H, and JDH) that were investigated as part of the Society of Automotive Engineer's cooperative research programs (CRP150) is provided. These blends were designed to possess global warming potential values less than 150 in order to meet the European Union's Mobile Directive; however, they were later abandoned because some of the blend components demonstrated concerns related to toxicity, ozone depletion potential, and/or reactivity. After the abandonment of these blends, a cooperative research program (CRP1234) was initiated by the Society of Automotive Engineers to focus its development efforts on R-1234yf. In addition to R-1234yf, a few other olefins are being investigated as potential refrigerants by the HVAC&R industry, as indicated by the level of patent activity. To demonstrate the performance potentials of some of these blends, simulations are conducted for several fluorinated propene isomer-based blends for typical unitary AC and refrigeration applications. In addition to these simulations, some of the advantages and disadvantages of fluorinated propene isomers are discussed.