3 Environmental Effects and Refrigerant Policy Free Online FlashCards

What causes refrigerant-related ozone depletion?

Ozone depletion occurs when chlorine- or bromine-containing chemicals reach the stratosphere and contribute to the destruction of ozone.

Why can HFCs still harm the climate despite having zero ODP?

Many HFCs do not deplete ozone, but can have a strong warming effect when released.

What does ozone-depletion potential (ODP) measure?

ODP compares a substance’s ozone-depleting effect with CFC-11, which is assigned an ODP of 1.

What does a 100-year GWP of 1,470 mean for 1 kg of gas?

A GWP of 1,470 on a 100-year basis means 1 kg of the gas has a warming effect equivalent to 1,470 kg of CO₂.

Are ODP and GWP alone enough to choose a refrigerant?

No. ODP and GWP do not capture every real-world effect, including equipment efficiency, refrigerant leakage, or emissions from manufacture and disposal.

What did the Montreal Protocol establish?

The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, established international controls to phase out ozone-depleting substances.

Does an HFC phasedown mean every existing system must be replaced immediately?

No. Restrictions do not necessarily require immediate replacement of every existing system; rules vary by refrigerant, equipment type, and activity.

What practical factors affect the suitability of a lower-impact refrigerant?

Alternatives can differ in flammability, toxicity, operating pressure, energy efficiency, and required system design.

How do leak prevention and efficient equipment reduce environmental impact?

Preventing leaks limits direct refrigerant releases; efficient equipment can also reduce indirect emissions from electricity use.

Which refrigerant families can deplete ozone?

CFCs and HCFCs, including R-12 and R-22, can deplete ozone.

What does global-warming potential (GWP) compare?

GWP compares the warming effect of a mass of gas with that of the same mass of CO₂ over a specified time horizon; CO₂ has a GWP of 1.

What is the Kigali Amendment’s main refrigerant policy?

The Kigali Amendment established a global, stepwise phasedown of HFC production and consumption, with different schedules for country groups.