Avaliação comparativa do ciclo de vida de refrigerantes sintéticos e naturais em aplicações industriais de refrigeração

Abstract

The growing environmental concerns and the increasing demand for sustainable industrial practices have driven the development of technological alternatives aimed at reducing ecological impacts. In the industrial refrigeration sector, which accounts for a considerable portion pf global energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the selection of the refrigerant is a key factor in minimizing environmental burdens. This study presents a comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of two commonly used refrigerants in industrial applications the Synthetic Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) R1233zd(E) and the natural refrigerant R717 (Ammonia). The assessment follows the ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards, encompassing all stages from raw material extraction to use and final disposal. The LCA was conducted using SimaPro Software, which enabled detailed inventory modelling and the quantification of environmental impacts across various categories, including Global Warming Potential (GWP), Ozone Deplection Potential (ODP), human toxicity, acidification, eutrophication, and cumulative energy demand. The results show that R717, despite its high energy efficiency and low GWP, presents notable impacts during the production phase, particularly in terms of toxicity and energy use. Conversely R1233zd(E) demonstrates lower toxicity and greater operational safety, but is associated with higher GHG emissions over its life cycle. The findings underscore the importance of evaluating refrigerants based on their overall life cycle performance, rather than solely on operational efficiency. This study aims to provide technical and environmental insights to support more sustainable decision making in the industrial refrigeration sector, fostering the integration of energy efficiency and sustainability principles.