Alternative Refrigerants for Low-temp Applications

The hydrof luorocarbon (HFC) R404A, which has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), is widely used as refrigerant in low-temperature applications. R404A’s global warming potential (GWP), however, is quite high (3,922) and has become a focus of criticism. Ammonia (NH3) has a long history of being used as refrigerant for industrial refrigeration units, but it is toxic and mildly flammable.