Refrigerants and the Ozone Layer
The word "ozone" - has become part of our everyday terminology. A very thin layer of the earth's upper atmosphere ozone contains. The ozone layer acts as a filter for ultraviolet rays of the sun. This protects people, plants and marine life from the damaging effects of these rays.
Scientists have discovered that the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from some refrigerants can harm the ozone layer. CFCs destroy the protective layer of the earth's atmosphere. This concern became what we call the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations. These rules identify the types of refrigerants, which can be produced. They also regulate, as refrigerants will be used. For more information, see Chapter 10.
The most commonly used refrigerants today are classified in four areas:
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
- Hydrochlorofiuorocarbons (HCFCs).
- Hydrofluorocarbons (FIFCs),
- Refrigerant blends (azeotropic and isotropic).
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