PFAS- free heating and cooling solutions

AI Quick Summary

The project "PFAS- free heating and cooling solutions" is about transforming the heating and cooling industry with PFAS-free solutions for a sustainable future. The goal is to research, analyze, and promote PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions, with a particular focus on heat pumps for residential buildings. Problem Identification: Heating and cooling accounts for half of the global energy consumption, generating 40% of CO2 emissions. In 2021, the heat pumps met around 10 % of global heating needs. Accelerated use of heat pumps can reduce the global GHG by 0.5 giga tonne by 2030. However, unintended leaks of F-gas refrigerants (which are potent GHGs and/or poses an environmental threat) can decrease their positive climate impacts. The use of F-gases poses the threat to offset part of the climate benefits of switching away from fossil fuels for heating. The report from IPCC 2022 states that the F-gases make up about 2.4 % of global GHG emissions. With the increased use of heat pumps, the emissions could go up rapidly (IEA, The Future of Heat Pumps, 2022).Many of the current heating and cooling solutions (e.g. heat pumps, chillers, mobile air-conditioning systems) are using hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) like R134a or R32 and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants like R1234yf, R1234ze(E). The HFO refrigerants have a very low global warming potential when integrated over 100 years. This is mainly due to their short lifetime which is within a couple of days to weeks for many HFOs (see Table 1). However, different studies investigating the presence of short-chain and ultra-short-chain PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), have found alarming concentrations in drinking water and they were associated with the HFCs and HFOs refrigerants. For example, trifluoroacetate (TFA), a PFAS product formed by the degradation of HFCs and HFOs, is now “widespread and dominant”. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” for their durability in nature. PFAS are contaminating the groundwater, surface water and soil, and cause serious health effects like cancer, hormonal disruption, liver damage, etc. Data from 2010 -13 showed that there are 17’000 sites where PFAS contamination has been detected and the majority lie in European countries including Switzerland (PFAS: How an EU chemical ban could hinder the energy transition). Removing PFAS is not yet done in water treatment plants as it is very difficult and expensive.According to the IEA HPT Annex 48 report on case studies of 29 industrial heat pumps in Switzerland, around 41.4 % of heat pumps are operating with hydroflurocarbon (R134a), 24.1 % with NH3 (R717), 17.2% with hydrofluoroolefin (R1234ze), 10.3 % with CO2 (R744), 6.9 % with other HFC (R245fa, R410A).For domestic applications, the survey made by IEA HPT Annex 46 on the market overview of heat pump technologies in Switzerland, all 53 Swiss models of heat pumps (for domestic hot water) from 26 heat pump suppliers were based on R134a refrigerant. R-134a also known as HFC-134a is a potent greenhouse gas with a GWP (global warming potential) value of 1'430. R134a production is being phased down globally under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. It is widely replaced by HFO-1234yf (R1234yf), but this leads, according to different recent studies, to more production of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in the atmosphere, and thus on the surface of the Earth (Kauffeld, Dudita, Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future, 2021).Solution: The project aims to research, analyze, and promote PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions, with a particular focus on heat pumps in the residential sector. We will collaborate with industry experts, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to achieve the following objectives: 1. Research and analysis:Through examination of the heat pump technologies available in the Swiss market and assessment of those with PFAS formation – refrigerants and their leakage rate. Identify the current market penetration of heat pumps with PFAS-free refrigerants.Measurable target: report on heat pump technologies in the Swiss market classified by the type of refrigerant and leakage rate. 2. Existing and alternative solutions:Identify and evaluate existing and alternative PFAS-free refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP). Drawing inspiration from countries like Norway, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand which have made significant progress in adopting natural refrigerants, a class of PFAS-free refrigerants, we will determine the viable options.Measurable target: report on PFAS-free refrigerants solutions for heat pump manufacturers for domestic application. 3. Feasibility assessment:Assessing the techno-economic feasibility of replacing PFAS-based heat pumps with the identified alternative solutions. The project aims to provide practical recommendations for a smooth transition to PFAS-free heat pumps based on technical compatibility, performance, safety, and cost implications.Measurable target: report available on the techno-economic feasibility study of replacing PFAS-based heat pumps with the identified alternative solutions. 4. Public Awareness:Disseminate results on the techno-economic aspects of switching from heat pumps using synthetic refrigerants that are not PFAS-free to those using natural refrigerants that are PFAS-free. In addition, the public will be informed about the threats to human health and the environment posed by PFAS-forming refrigerants.Measurable target: conference press in which the story of the project and its results will be presented. Heat pump manufacturers and professional associations, experts in the field, and regulatory bodies will be invited to participate at OST, Campus Rapperswil.ObjectiveTo investigate the percentage of heat pumps sold in Switzerland that are free from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and identify the alternative nature-based solutions with both low GWP and that are PFAS free Benefits: A. Customer perspective (industries, buildings, governmental agencies, health care facilities, etc): Health and Safety: PFAS chemicals are known to have adverse effects on human health, including potential links to cancer, hormonal disruptions, and other health issues. By opting for PFAS-free solutions, customers can provide a safer environment for occupants and reduce health risks. Environmental Compliance: Many countries and regions are implementing stricter regulations regarding the use and disposal of PFAS chemicals and phase out of F-gas refrigerants. Choosing PFAS-free solutions helps customers comply with these regulations and avoid potential fines or legal issues. Reputation and Brand Image: Adopting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices can enhance a customer's reputation and brand image. Promoting the use of PFAS-free solutions demonstrates a commitment to health, safety, and responsible business practices. Long-Term Cost Savings: While PFAS-free solutions may have higher upfront costs, they can provide long-term savings in the operating costs. These solutions often focus on energy efficiency and can result in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills over time. Market Differentiation: In industries where environmental concerns and sustainability are valued, offering PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions can differentiate a customer's products or services from competitors. This can attract environmentally conscious consumers and potentially lead to increased market share. B. Energy perspective: Energy Efficiency: PFAS-free heating and cooling systems typically have higher efficiency ratings, reducing energy consumption compared to conventional systems. By operating more efficiently, they help minimize energy waste and decrease the overall energy demand. Such a refrigerant system can achieve 10 -15 % higher energy efficiency than conventional systems (Kauffeld, Dudita, Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future, 2021)..Reduced Refrigerant Emissions: Traditional heating and cooling systems may use refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). PFAS-free solutions prioritize the use of low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants or natural refrigerants, which have significantly lower or no impact on global warming. By minimizing refrigerant emissions (by 1430 GWP when compared to R134a), these solutions contribute to the significant reduction of CO2 equivalents in the atmosphere. (ODP = ozone depletion potential, GWP = Global Warming Potential on a 100-year time basis)The annual average leakage rate of the heat pump is around 4 % and considering the the lifetime of 15 years for the heat pump, the end-of-life leakage rate is around 60%. It is assumed that the weight of the refrigerant in a heat pump with F-gas is around 3 kg and the one with natural refrigerants is around 1.2 kg. The emissions due to F-gas during the lifetime of the heat pump is 2.662 tCO2 per heat pump in comparison to 0.003 tCO2 per heat pump if the heat pump is with the natural refrigerants. Therefore, the use of natural refrigerants in the heat pumps could save up to 99.89 % of emissions that occur due to F-Gas refrigerants. Lifecycle Considerations: PFAS-free solutions can be designed with a lifecycle perspective, considering the environmental impact at different stages, including manufacturing, installation, operation, and end-of-life. By optimizing these aspects and selecting materials with low environmental impact, the overall carbon footprint of the heating and cooling systems can be reduced. Manufacturing CO2 equivalent emissions: HFCs and HFOs have 4 to 11 times higher CO2 equivalent emissions respectively when compared to the manufacture of hydrocarbons, CO2, or ammonia (Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future). Renewable Energy Integration: PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions can be designed to integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar, geothermal, or wind power. By utilizing clean and renewable energy, these systems further reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and decrease associated CO2 emissions.

Project Idea Metadata

Project Idea Name: PFAS- free heating and cooling solutions
Date: 7/31/2023 9:48:21 AM
Administrators:
- Kanchan Bohara

Project Idea Description

Problem Identification:

Heating and cooling accounts for half of the global energy consumption, generating 40% of CO₂ emissions. In 2021, the heat pumps met around 10 % of global heating needs. Accelerated use of heat pumps can reduce the global GHG by 0.5 giga tonne by 2030. However, unintended leaks of F-gas refrigerants (which are potent GHGs and/or poses an environmental threat) can decrease their positive climate impacts. The use of F-gases poses the threat to offset part of the climate benefits of switching away from fossil fuels for heating. The report from IPCC 2022 states that the F-gases make up about 2.4 % of global GHG emissions. With the increased use of heat pumps, the emissions could go up rapidly (IEA, The Future of Heat Pumps, 2022).

Many of the current heating and cooling solutions (e.g. heat pumps, chillers, mobile air-conditioning systems) are using hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) like R134a or R32 and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants like R1234yf, R1234ze(E). The HFO refrigerants have a very low global warming potential when integrated over 100 years. This is mainly due to their short lifetime which is within a couple of days to weeks for many HFOs (see Table 1). However, different studies investigating the presence of short-chain and ultra-short-chain PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), have found alarming concentrations in drinking water and they were associated with the HFCs and HFOs refrigerants. For example, trifluoroacetate (TFA), a PFAS product formed by the degradation of HFCs and HFOs, is now “widespread and dominant”. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” for their durability in nature. PFAS are contaminating the groundwater, surface water and soil, and cause serious health effects like cancer, hormonal disruption, liver damage, etc. Data from 2010 -13 showed that there are 17’000 sites where PFAS contamination has been detected and the majority lie in European countries including Switzerland (PFAS: How an EU chemical ban could hinder the energy transition). Removing PFAS is not yet done in water treatment plants as it is very difficult and expensive.

According to the IEA HPT Annex 48 report on case studies of 29 industrial heat pumps in Switzerland, around 41.4 % of heat pumps are operating with hydroflurocarbon (R134a), 24.1 % with NH₃ (R717), 17.2% with hydrofluoroolefin (R1234ze), 10.3 % with CO₂ (R744), 6.9 % with other HFC (R245fa, R410A).

For domestic applications, the survey made by IEA HPT Annex 46 on the market overview of heat pump technologies in Switzerland, all 53 Swiss models of heat pumps (for domestic hot water) from 26 heat pump suppliers were based on R134a refrigerant. R-134a also known as HFC-134a is a potent greenhouse gas with a GWP (global warming potential) value of 1'430. R134a production is being phased down globally under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. It is widely replaced by HFO-1234yf (R1234yf), but this leads, according to different recent studies, to more production of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in the atmosphere, and thus on the surface of the Earth (Kauffeld, Dudita, Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future, 2021).

Solution:

The project aims to research, analyze, and promote PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions, with a particular focus on heat pumps in the residential sector. We will collaborate with industry experts, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to achieve the following objectives:

1. Research and analysis:

Through examination of the heat pump technologies available in the Swiss market and assessment of those with PFAS formation – refrigerants and their leakage rate. Identify the current market penetration of heat pumps with PFAS-free refrigerants.

Measurable target: report on heat pump technologies in the Swiss market classified by the type of refrigerant and leakage rate.

2. Existing and alternative solutions:

Identify and evaluate existing and alternative PFAS-free refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP). Drawing inspiration from countries like Norway, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand which have made significant progress in adopting natural refrigerants, a class of PFAS-free refrigerants, we will determine the viable options.

Measurable target: report on PFAS-free refrigerants solutions for heat pump manufacturers for domestic application.

3. Feasibility assessment:

Assessing the techno-economic feasibility of replacing PFAS-based heat pumps with the identified alternative solutions. The project aims to provide practical recommendations for a smooth transition to PFAS-free heat pumps based on technical compatibility, performance, safety, and cost implications.

Measurable target: report available on the techno-economic feasibility study of replacing PFAS-based heat pumps with the identified alternative solutions.

4. Public Awareness:

Disseminate results on the techno-economic aspects of switching from heat pumps using synthetic refrigerants that are not PFAS-free to those using natural refrigerants that are PFAS-free. In addition, the public will be informed about the threats to human health and the environment posed by PFAS-forming refrigerants.

Measurable target: conference press in which the story of the project and its results will be presented. Heat pump manufacturers and professional associations, experts in the field, and regulatory bodies will be invited to participate at OST, Campus Rapperswil.

Objective

To investigate the percentage of heat pumps sold in Switzerland that are free from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and identify the alternative nature-based solutions with both low GWP and that are PFAS free

Benefits:

A. Customer perspective (industries, buildings, governmental agencies, health care facilities, etc):

Health and Safety: PFAS chemicals are known to have adverse effects on human health, including potential links to cancer, hormonal disruptions, and other health issues. By opting for PFAS-free solutions, customers can provide a safer environment for occupants and reduce health risks.

Environmental Compliance: Many countries and regions are implementing stricter regulations regarding the use and disposal of PFAS chemicals and phase out of F-gas refrigerants. Choosing PFAS-free solutions helps customers comply with these regulations and avoid potential fines or legal issues.

Reputation and Brand Image: Adopting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices can enhance a customer's reputation and brand image. Promoting the use of PFAS-free solutions demonstrates a commitment to health, safety, and responsible business practices.

Long-Term Cost Savings: While PFAS-free solutions may have higher upfront costs, they can provide long-term savings in the operating costs. These solutions often focus on energy efficiency and can result in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills over time.

Market Differentiation: In industries where environmental concerns and sustainability are valued, offering PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions can differentiate a customer's products or services from competitors. This can attract environmentally conscious consumers and potentially lead to increased market share.

B. Energy perspective:

Energy Efficiency: PFAS-free heating and cooling systems typically have higher efficiency ratings, reducing energy consumption compared to conventional systems. By operating more efficiently, they help minimize energy waste and decrease the overall energy demand. Such a refrigerant system can achieve 10 -15 % higher energy efficiency than conventional systems (Kauffeld, Dudita, Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future, 2021)..

Reduced Refrigerant Emissions: Traditional heating and cooling systems may use refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). PFAS-free solutions prioritize the use of low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants or natural refrigerants, which have significantly lower or no impact on global warming. By minimizing refrigerant emissions (by 1430 GWP when compared to R134a), these solutions contribute to the significant reduction of CO2 equivalents in the atmosphere. (ODP = ozone depletion potential, GWP = Global Warming Potential on a 100-year time basis)The annual average leakage rate of the heat pump is around 4 % and considering the the lifetime of 15 years for the heat pump, the end-of-life leakage rate is around 60%. It is assumed that the weight of the refrigerant in a heat pump with F-gas is around 3 kg and the one with natural refrigerants is around 1.2 kg. The emissions due to F-gas during the lifetime of the heat pump is 2.662 tCO2 per heat pump in comparison to 0.003 tCO2 per heat pump if the heat pump is with the natural refrigerants. Therefore, the use of natural refrigerants in the heat pumps could save up to 99.89 % of emissions that occur due to F-Gas refrigerants.

Lifecycle Considerations: PFAS-free solutions can be designed with a lifecycle perspective, considering the environmental impact at different stages, including manufacturing, installation, operation, and end-of-life. By optimizing these aspects and selecting materials with low environmental impact, the overall carbon footprint of the heating and cooling systems can be reduced.

Manufacturing CO₂ equivalent emissions: HFCs and HFOs have 4 to 11 times higher CO₂ equivalent emissions respectively when compared to the manufacture of hydrocarbons, CO₂, or ammonia (Environmental impact of HFO refrigerants & alternatives for the future).

Renewable Energy Integration: PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions can be designed to integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar, geothermal, or wind power. By utilizing clean and renewable energy, these systems further reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and decrease associated CO₂ emissions.

The project "PFAS- free heating and cooling solutions" is about transforming the heating and cooling industry with PFAS-free solutions for a sustainable future. The goal is to research, analyze, and promote PFAS-free heating and cooling solutions, with a particular focus on heat pumps for residential buildings.