ATMOsphere Report 2010 on Natural Refrigerants available for free download

A growing number of organisations around the world is already working on introducing technically and financially viable natural refrigerant systems. ATMOsphere 2010 brought them together on 27-28 September to discuss HOW to build a roadmap to bring hydrocarbons as a replacement to HCFCs and HFCs even faster to the market. The results of intensive exchange of views, insightful presentations and lively workshop discussions have now been summarised into a 42 pages report highlightling the key messages from all presentations, surveys and workshop groups before and during ATMOsphere 2010.

Freely available as a download the report draws up a shortlist of barriers currently impeding the use of hydrocarbons in different world markets and applications. As an example, participants and other interested parties identified these barriers to a widespread use of hydrocarbons in industrial refrigeration equipment:

• Availability: In certain regions it is difficult to obtain hydrocarbon gases
• Service and Maintenance: The lack of qualified service and maintenance personnel
• Legal restrictions: In countries like the US, the use of hydrocarbons is restricted. Several international standards restrict hydrocarbon charge quantity in cabinets up to 150g

The event was also an opportunity for members from around the world to express their needs and achievements with regards to hydrocarbons:

• Many TAFE colleges in Australia now teach the safe use of hydrocarbons as part of their normal training for tradesmen/apprentices. Since 1990 over 200 tonnes of hydrocarbons have been sold in Australia to the MAC re-gas market, avoiding over 800,000,000kg of CO2 emissions.
• South East Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore have also seen a great number of conversions of air conditioning systems in commercial buildings to hydrocarbons as well as car air-conditioners.

Participants from all around the world joined in the discussions bringing to the table their unique perspectives. In his welcome message to the ATMOsphere 2010 report Marc Chasserot, Chairman of ATMOsphere 2010, pointed out that “people wanted to network and share knowledge regarding carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons and ammonia. Participants talked as “We need” rather than “I need”. (…) I can assure you that we will not stop here. We will talk with partners around the world to ensure that these cutting-edge discussions continue to drive change both within industry and policy.”

Besides being available for download on www.hydrocarbons21.com and the event website www.atmosphere2010.com, print copies of the report will be handed out next to policy makers at the UN negotiations in Thailand (MOP 22) and Cancun (COP16) as well as to the industry experts at main HVAC&R events including Chillventa 2010.