The Thermodynamic Efficiency of Refrigerants: a History of a Downhill Slide?

The thermodynamic properties of refrigerants modeled in a simple single-stage vapor compression cycle can provide insight into the potential benefits or challenges associated with new generations of refrigerants.  This presentation outlines a simple thermodynamic cycle model and discuss various aspects important to system performance, including the impact of temperature glide when using zeotropic blends.  The thermodynamic performance of a range of next generation low GWP refrigerants will be reviewed, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges in front of us as we transition yet again.  Maybe not everything is going downhill?