Fgases

FGases, or fluorinated greenhouse gases, refer to a group of industrially produced, synthetic compounds that contain fluorine. The term commonly covers hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3), among others. These gases are potent greenhouse gases with long atmospheric lifetimes and are not readily destroyed by natural processes.

Origins and uses of FGases vary by compound. HFCs were developed as ozone-safe replacements for CFCs and HCFCs in refrigeration, air conditioning, foam blowing, and some solvents. SF6 is used as an insulating and switching dielectric in electrical equipment. NF3 is used in electronics manufacturing, including plasma etching processes. Because of their favorable thermodynamic or electrical properties, FGases found widespread industrial use, but they are also a source of long-term climate forcing when released.

Environmental impact is driven by high global warming potentials and long atmospheric lifetimes. SF6 has one of the highest GWPs of any known greenhouse gas, with a 100-year GWP around 23,500. NF3 is also highly potent, with a GWP around 17,000. HFCs vary from hundreds to thousands in GWP, depending on the specific compound. Even small leaks or releases can contribute significantly to radiative forcing over time.

Regulation and policy frameworks aim to limit emissions and phase down high-GWP FGases. Internationally, efforts include agreements under the Kyoto Protocol and the Kigali Amendment to reduce HFC use. Regional regulations, such as the EU F-Gas Regulation, set production and import quotas, require leak checks, certification, and end-of-life reclamation. National programs, including the U.S. SNAP program, promote safer alternatives and mitigation measures.

Management and mitigation focus on containment, leak detection, and recovery at end-of-life, along with shifts toward lower-GWP refrigerants and alternatives such as natural refrigerants (carbon dioxide, ammonia, hydrocarbons) where appropriate.

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