Freon GWP (global warming potential) – what is it, tables by class and GWP

In this publication, we will explain what is the global warming potential (GWP). Here are the GWP tables of freons by class and by GWP value. We will tell you how the production of refrigerants will be reduced.

What is the global warming potential of freon

Global warming potential, GWP (Global warming potential) – a characteristic of a substance that shows how strong the greenhouse effect it has. Global warming potential is measured in units showing a comparison of the effect of a gas in relation to carbon dioxide (carbon dioxide, CO2).

If the refrigerant R134a has a GWP of 1430, this means that 1 kg of freon is equivalent to 1430 kg of carbon dioxide. According to the international classification, the global warming potential is calculated for the following periods:

• 1 year;
• 20 years;
• 50 years;
• 100 years.

Illustrative example

According to studies, the average car emits 12.2 kg of carbon dioxide per 100 kilometers. According to GWP, this is equivalent to 6.74 grams of R22 refrigerant. The leakage of one cylinder of this freon (13.6 kg) into the atmosphere is equivalent to an average car’s mileage of 201,700 km!

High GWP freon ban

Freons related to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs, HFCs) have a great influence on the greenhouse effect. In 2016, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol was adopted . It sets the rules for reducing the use of HFCs.

If it is observed, then by 2047 emissions of freons with high GWP will be reduced by 80-85%. This is the equivalent of 80 billion tons (!) of carbon dioxide. Thus, climate warming by 0.5 °С can be avoided. On a planetary scale, this is significant.

The reduction in the use of high GWP halons has led to the development of new ones. R22 analogues, R12 substitutes, R134a alternatives began to appear . Many are still in the testing phase, but some are being actively applied.

GWP of freons (refrigerants)

In this section, we provide tables of refrigerants with an indication of their global warming potential. For convenience, they are listed in ASHRAE classification order, from lowest to highest. The GWP values ​​for refrigerants are given over a span of 100 years.

R11-R170 GWP

R218-R365mfc GWP

R401a – R466a GWP

R500 – R744 GWP

GWP refrigerants without classification

Summary table of GWP refrigerants

In this table, we have given the entire list of the most common freons. Sorting proceeds from the highest GWP of the refrigerant to the lowest.

In this publication, we told what is the global warming potential GWP of freons. We gave tables on classes and the impact on the greenhouse effect. We hope it was helpful to you. Don’t forget to share this post with your colleagues!