New Refrigerants Could Slash Global Warming Impact of Air Conditioning
Researchers developed new refrigerant blends to replace R-410A and R22 in air conditioning systems due to their high environmental impact. They created hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) to reduce global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential. The new blends aim for improved safety and performance while being environmentally friendly. Three candidate fluids were identified, each with unique properties. One is a flammable gas with high capacity like R-410A, another is non-flammable for high temperatures to replace R22, and the third offers a balance of properties. These blends are still in the lab testing phase under designated DR codes before potential commercial use.