Is CO_2 the 'natural' refrigerant for food retail and cold chain?

摘要

With an increased interest in using natural refrigerants, typically ones having a GWP (Global Warming Potential) no greater than 150 and with a drive to protect our environment, what would make carbon dioxide (CO_2) the "natural" refrigerant choice for food retail, food manufacturing, food processing plants, and cold chain? There are several important considerations to make when questioning the use of CO_2 (R744) as a refrigerant gas for these sectors, such as: environmental benefits, refrigeration system technology, regulations and compliance, safety requirements, maintenance and operating conditions and refrigerant leak detection technology.