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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
08:18
Design and Use of a Full Flow Sampling System (FFS) for the Quantification of Methane Emissions
Published on: June 12, 2016
Sustainable Refrigerants, Policy Drivers, and Emerging Technologies
Emmanuel Ababio1,2,3, David R Corbin1,2,3, Mark B Shiflett1,2,3
1Environmentally Applied Refrigerant Technology Hub (EARTH), US National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA;
Summary
This review examines sustainable refrigerants for HVACR systems, crucial for global sustainability. It assesses alternatives and emerging technologies to guide a low-emission, energy-efficient future for the HVACR sector.
Area of Science:
- HVACR systems and their environmental impact.
- Sustainable refrigerant technologies and global regulations.
Background:
- HVACR systems are vital but significant energy consumers.
- Refrigerant emissions and energy use challenge global sustainability goals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review international agreements and regulations driving sustainable refrigerants.
- To critically assess current and emerging sustainable refrigerant alternatives.
- To provide a roadmap for a sustainable HVACR sector.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of refrigerant evolution and international agreements.
- Critical assessment of natural and low-GWP synthetic refrigerants.
- Examination of emerging cooling technologies and management strategies.
Main Results:
- International agreements and regulations are key drivers for sustainable refrigerants.
- Current alternatives like natural refrigerants and HFOs have trade-offs in application, cost, safety, and infrastructure.
- Emerging solutions offer potential for future advancements.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive roadmap integrating regulatory, market, and technological insights is needed.
- Future research and development should focus on sustainable, low-emission, and energy-efficient HVACR solutions.
- Transitioning to sustainable refrigerants is critical for environmental goals.
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