Fluorinated gases or F-gases are a family of human-made fluorine-based gases. They are powerful greenhouse gases that trap heat and hasten global warming. Though they find wide applications in households and industries, many countries such as the UK have imposed regulations on their use as a step towards combating the climate crisis.
There are three main types of F-gases:
- hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
- perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
- sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
Main uses of F-gases F-gases are used in a number of ways:
- Stationary refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump (RAC) equipment are some of the largest sources of F-gas emissions.
- Some stationary fire protection systems and portable fire extinguishers currently use HFCs.
- Mobile air conditioning in cars and light vans currently uses HFCs. Other air-conditioned and refrigerated transport also uses F-gases.
- Solvents containing F-gases are used to clean components, eg in the electronics and aerospace industries.
- F-gases have many specialist uses such as in the production of magnesium, different types of foam and high voltage switchgear.
Picture Credit : Google
