Refrigerants Phased Out, Safer Alternatives Discovered to Protect the Planet
Researchers are looking for better refrigerants to protect the environment. They studied almost 40 replacement options for older refrigerants like R134a and R410A, considering both safety and eco-friendliness. They found that R513a and R466A are good replacements, while alternatives for R404A have pros and cons. They compared factors like cooling power, efficiency, safety, and environmental impact. Some alternatives like R32 and certain new refrigerants show promise. The researchers also tested flammable refrigerants such as R1234yf and R290; they found that hydrocarbons are harder to control than other types. They suggest new ways to study the risks of refrigerants exploding, covering leaks, fires, and how to stay safe.