Natural Refrigerants: NH3 & CO2 — The Future of Industrial Cooling

Natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO2 are gaining renewed interest due to their low environmental impact and excellent heat transfer properties.

Ammonia (NH3) has outstanding thermodynamic performance for large industrial systems, but requires disciplined safety and detection systems because of its toxicity. CO2 (R-744) excels in cascade and transcritical systems where its physical properties are leveraged for efficiency.

In designing with natural refrigerants, engineers must consider material compatibility, pressure levels, and local codes. When implemented correctly, the result is a robust, energy-efficient system with a reduced carbon footprint.