külmutusagens

Külmutusagens, also known as refrigerant, is a working fluid used in a refrigeration cycle. It absorbs heat from a low-temperature reservoir and releases it to a high-temperature reservoir. This process is fundamental to refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

Common refrigerants include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and newer alternatives like hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and natural refrigerants such as ammonia, carbon dioxide, and hydrocarbons. The choice of refrigerant depends on the application, desired operating temperature, efficiency requirements, and environmental regulations.

Historically, CFCs were widely used but were phased out due to their ozone-depleting potential. HCFCs were introduced as transitional replacements but also have ozone-depleting properties and are being phased down. HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer but have high global warming potentials (GWPs), leading to their regulation under international agreements like the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

The development of new refrigerants focuses on reducing environmental impact, particularly GWP and ozone depletion potential, while maintaining or improving energy efficiency and safety. Each refrigerant has specific thermodynamic properties, pressure-temperature characteristics, and compatibility requirements with system components. Proper handling and disposal of refrigerants are crucial to minimize environmental release.