Fgaser

Fgaser, or fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), are a group of synthetic gases that contain fluorine and contribute to the greenhouse effect. They are used in a range of industrial and consumer applications, notably as refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration systems, as blowing agents for foam insulation, as solvents in electronics manufacturing, and as insulating and arc-quenching gases in electrical equipment.

Chemically, the major categories include hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3). Many F-gases have high global warming potentials and long atmospheric lifetimes, leading to significant climate impact if released.

Regulation: In the European Union, F-gases are regulated under the F-Gas Regulation, which restricts production and use, requires leak checks, service and recycling practices, technician certification, labeling, and end-of-life destruction. Global efforts to reduce F-gases are embodied in the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase down HFCs, and in national policies that set phasedown schedules and reporting requirements.

Environment and health: Emissions occur through leaks from equipment, improper disposal, or during servicing. While most F-gases are not acutely toxic in many applications, some, like NF3 and certain HFCs, can pose health and safety risks at high concentrations or under improper handling.

Alternatives: Efforts are underway to replace high-GWP F-gases with lower-GWP substances such as natural refrigerants, lower-GWP HFCs, and improved leak prevention and recovery practices, as well as recycling and destruction technologies.