R115

R115 is a refrigerant designated under the ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) classification system. It is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) compound with the chemical formula CHCl₂CF₃, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to two chlorine atoms, two hydrogen atoms, and three fluorine atoms. R115 was developed as a replacement for older refrigerants like R12 (dichlorodifluoromethane), which was phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties.

R115 is primarily used in industrial refrigeration systems, particularly in low-temperature applications such as cascade systems and large-scale cooling processes. Its thermodynamic properties, including a high critical temperature and pressure, make it suitable for these demanding environments. However, its use is heavily regulated due to its ozone-depleting potential, though it is less harmful than earlier refrigerants like R11 (trichlorofluoromethane).

The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer, has restricted the production and use of R115. As a result, its application has declined in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or natural refrigerants like ammonia or carbon dioxide. Despite its environmental concerns, R115 remains relevant in legacy systems where retrofitting is not feasible or cost-effective.

R115 is non-toxic and non-flammable, contributing to its historical use in industrial settings. However, its high global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP) have led to its phasedown. Researchers and engineers continue to explore safer alternatives to mitigate environmental impact while maintaining efficiency in refrigeration technology.