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A review on analysis of Vapour Compression Refrigeration System
(VCRS) for its performance using different ecofriendly refrigerants and
nanofluids
Sourabh Kulkarni
⇑
, Shriramshastri Chavali, Shruti Dikshit
Mechanical Engineering Department, School of Engineering & Technology, D Y Patil University Ambi, Pune 410507, Maharashtra, India
article info
Article history:
Available online xxxx
Keywords:
COP
GWP
ODP
HC refrigerant
VCRS
Nanofluids
abstract
From last many years Vapour Compression Refrigeration system (VCRS) was incorporated in most of
refrigeration systems because of its favourable features like higher Coefficient of Performance (COP),
higher Refrigerating Effect (RE) etc. VCRS Systems have wide range of applications including domestic
and Industrial systems. In any refrigeration system refrigerant is the primary working fluid for absorbing
as well as transmitting heat. Domestic and industrial refrigeration systems employ HFC’s due to their
excellent thermodynamic properties but Kyoto protocol categorized HFCs as global warming gases due
to their higher value of GWP (1300). To meet the needs of global standards and eco-friendliness, it is very
essential to find out the alternative refrigerants to HFCs. Alternate refrigerants to be used should fulfil the
required characteristics like energy efficient heat transfer, higher refrigerating effect, higher condenser
heat rejection rate and higher COP as well as it should have lower GWP and zero ODP. From Research,
it was found that Mixed Refrigeration Systems or blends are thermally efficient and different types of
nanofluids can be utilized along with R134a for improving and achieving excellent performance of a
Refrigeration system.
Ó2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 2nd International Con-
ference and Exposition on Advances in Mechanical Engineering.
1. Introduction
The procedure to remove heat from body or encased space to
lower and maintain its temperature below surrounding is called
as refrigeration and to maintain this required temperature device
is used called as refrigeration equipment. Its journey started from
1834 when Perkins has developed the first refrigeration machine
with hand operated compressor and ether as a working fluid. Later
Linde has introduced a refrigeration system with ammonia as a
working fluid in 1856. James Harrison developed the first practical
Vapour Compressor Refrigeration (VCR) system and constructed a
mechanical ice making machine with ether as a working fluid in
1861. Refrigerators for home use were invented in year 1913.
There are two types of Refrigeration system namely Vapour
Compression Refrigeration system and Vapour Absorption Refrig-
eration system.
1.1. Vapour Compression Refrigeration System (VCRS)
Schematic arrangement for Vapour compression refrigeration
system which comprises of components namely compressor, con-
denser, expansion device and an evaporator is shown in Fig. 1.
After absorbing heat from the evaporator (process between state
points 4 and 1), low pressure low temperature vapour refrigerant
goes to the compressor and gets compressed by input work from
compressor (process between state points 1 and 2). After that
vapour refrigerant which is at high pressure and high temperature
rejects heat to the surrounding through the constant pressure con-
densation (process between state points 2 and 3) in the condenser.
Throttling process make sure that the heat absorption will occur
in the evaporator through the expansion device by expanding the
high pressure liquid refrigerant to low pressure low temperature
liquid refrigerant (process between state points 3 and 4). This liq-
uid refrigerant is then absorbing heat from evaporator and this
cycle runs continuously [1]. The various thermodynamic processes
associated with VCRS cycle are represented by p-h diagram and T-s
diagram in Fig. 2 and in Fig. 3 respectively.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2022.09.085
2214-7853/Ó2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 2nd International Conference and Exposition on Advances in Mechanical Engineering.
⇑
Corresponding author.
E-mail address: sourabhkdypu@gmail.com (S. Kulkarni).
Materials Today: Proceedings xxx (xxxx) xxx
Contents lists available at ScienceDirect
Materials Today: Proceedings
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/matpr
Please cite this article as: S. Kulkarni, S. Chavali and S. Dikshit, A review on analysis of Vapour Compression Refrigeration System (VCRS) for its performance
using different ecofriendly refrigerants and nanofluids, Materials Today: Proceedings, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2022.09.085
GWP and ODP values for the refrigerants like CFCs, HCFCs,
Hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs) used in industrial and domestic refrig-
eration system are shown in Table 1 [2]. GWP value of CFCs and
HCFCs are very much high which leads to green house effect. Hence
they have to be phased out from the refrigeration and air condi-
tioning systems. HFCs were introduced in the refrigeration system
to replace CFCs which are having comparatively lower GWP. Even
though low GWP, the usage level of HFCs is increasing very drasti-
cally in the refrigeration industries which lead to increase of global
warming.
2. Overview of literature
2.1. Selection of eco-friendly refrigerants
HFC’s are widely used in VCRS systems all over the world. But
due to environmental concern these are to be phase out in coming
years and also the reason to phase out HFC Refrigerant is its high
Global Warming Potential (GWP) value. Along these lines, those
are related with research in refrigeration and air conditionings
are searching for alternative refrigerant which will be environment
friendly.
Mohanraj et al. [3] has observed that the Hydrocarbon Mixture
of refrigerants Propane R290 and Isobutane R600a could be consid-
ered as an option in contrast to R134a in domestic refrigerators..
The experimental performance was analyzed with different refrig-
erant mass values and among these, 60 g of refrigerant charge have
very low power consumption and discharge temperature is about
11.1 % compared to R134a respectively. COP has enhanced up to
3.6 % and also reduces the global warming effect indirectly. Thus
considering alternative for replacing R134a in refrigerators HCM
would be best option as it has some favourable factors like good
mixing with Poly Olester Oil and high efficiency etc. Chen et al.
[4] completed an experimentation tests to concentrate on perfor-
mance of refrigerants viz. R152a, R1234yf and R134a when ana-
lyzed in VCR free from oil under a wide scope of working
conditions to research on the chance of utilizing low GWP refriger-
ants to supplant R134a Refrigerant. The outcomes showed that
R1234yf is like R134a when concerned about parameters like oper-
ating temperature and pressure; however R1234yf has nearly 10 %
and 15 % decay in cooling limit and coefficient of performance indi-
vidually. As HFC’s are being outdated in coming years due to global
environment concern there is need to find less global warming
potential alternative and also when considered parameters like
cost and efficiency Difluoroethane can be suitable instead of
Tetrafluoroethane.
Ahmad Ansari et al. [5] examined HCRS (Hybrid Cascade Refrig-
eration System) for analyzing energy and exergy with the help of
mathematical model. This system consists of Vapour Absorption
system at High Temp stage and Vapour compression system at
Low temperature stage and analysis is carried out for both systems.
For this research mainly-three refrigerants were selected viz.
R134a, R32 and R1234yf and can be suggested as a future option
as it’s having properties like zero ODP and very low GWP. Also it
is found that optimum temperature is nearly same for all used
refrigerants and this will also be resulting in enhancement of
COP. Gill and Singh [6] explored experimentally analysis for energy
to find out option in contrast for R134a with help of mixture
involving R134a and LPG. For various evaporator and condenser
temperatures different tests were conducted to measure perfor-
mance and from results it is found that blend of R134a and LPG
with 5.1 m length of capillary gives better performance when com-
pared with as that of R134a for 3.1 m length of capillary under
comparative exploratory circumstances. There are various desir-
able parameters of mixture involving R134a and LPG over Tetraflu-
oroethane like higher COP, capacity and less loss of lubricant etc.
hence it is recommended over R134a from energy considerations.
Fig. 1. Arrangement of VCR System.
Fig. 2. p-h diagram of VCR System.
Fig. 3. T-S diagram of VCR System.
Table 1
GWP and ODP values of CFCs, HCFCs and HFCs.
Refrigerant Formula/
Composition
GWP
Value
ODP
Value
CFCs
R11 (Trichloro-fluoro-methane) CFCl
3
4000 1
R12 (Dichlorodifluoromethane) CF
2
Cl
2
8500 1
HCFCs
R22 (chloro-difluoro-methane) CF
2
HCl 1700 0.055
R408A R125/R143a/R22 2650 –
R401A R22/R152a/R124 970 –
HFCs
R32 (difluoromethane) CH
2
F
2
650 0
R125 (Pentafluoroethane) CF
3
CHF
2
2800 0
R134a (Tetrafluoroethane) CF
3
CH
2
F 1300 0
S. Kulkarni, S. Chavali and S. Dikshit Materials Today: Proceedings xxx (xxxx) xxx
2
Vaghela [7] concentrated on theoretical parts of R134a in car AC
and found alternative option for refrigerant R134a. For this theo-
retical study different refrigerants were compared along with
R134a viz. R290, R600a, R1234yf etc. From trial results, it has
observed that R1234yf is the best suited elective refrigerants as a
substitute for R134a.Along with this use of R1234yf can be sug-
gested because of its advantage of retrofitting in existing car AC
system with least modifications. Also use of R290 and R600 in
automotive air conditioner is not recommended due to flammabil-
ity issue. Pilla et al. [8] found out composition/blend to be used in
domestic refrigerators considering parameters like Experimental
or Carnot COP etc for this performance of compressor was studied
and suggested R290 and R600a with 60 and 40 percentage respec-
tively as given better performance. Authors also suggested using
small compressors instead on regular single compressor with dif-
ferent composition as it will perform near to ideal cycle for some
cases. As motive behind this research is to found out effect of
blends on compressor performance temperature distribution was
found out along with that suggested effective compressor design.
Reddy et al. [9] investigated performance of household refriger-
ator by changing parameters like capillary length and amount of
refrigerant to be charged. For this research selected refrigerant
blend was HC mixture of R290 and R600a with different composi-
tion. From results R436A which is mixture of 56 % R290 and 44 %
R600a can be used as option for R134a also its having low pull
down time etc characteristics and better performance. de Paula
et al. [10] introduced a numerical model of little cooling limit
VCRS. For this model various refrigerants were selected and from
analysis it shows that R290 has higher performance when consid-
ered parameters like environment performance to replace R134a.
Possible combination of different diameters used in heat exchang-
ers different parameters were selected for comparison and out-
comes of this work was compared with results from work carried
out by different researchers along with simulation data. Results
are found to be matching within permissible limit and variation
is maybe due to parameters like some design change and analytical
method adopted.
Islam et al. [11] evaluated different important parameters of
VCRS like COP, efficiency, TWEI etc. For this examination investiga-
tion was done for different refrigerants like R12, R134a, Refriger-
ants having less GWP viz R32, R1234yf and natural refrigerants
like CO2. R600a has given least value while R12 gives high value
for TWEI. Result likewise expressed that CO2 refrigerant is an
incredibly forthcoming refrigerant for its non-harmfulness and
non-combustibility. Ozsipahi et al. [12] tentatively examined the
impact of blend of R290 and R600a on the variable speed compres-
sor in domestic refrigerator. Detailed study has been carried out for
four blends of propane and isobutene with little capacity compres-
sor stand. To compare performance of propane with isobutane its
mixture composition varied from 40 to 70 % in mass. It was found
that COP increases either with increment in evaporator temp or
with decrease in condenser temp and also The COP of the refriger-
ation cycle is nearly 20 % more prominent compared with R600a
relying upon the mixture of refrigerant blends.
Baakeem et al. [13] researched the exhibition of a multistage
VCRS utilizing parameters like energy and exergy etc. For this
research EES Software was used for modelling of the system, vali-
dation was completed along with already published results and
results are under error less than 2 %. In this research authors found
that greater COP was achieved for Carbon Dioxide nearly 6 and
least COP for R407C about 5. Likewise it has been observed that
R717 is a most ideal choice while R407C isn’t prescribed to utilize.
Wu et al. [14] investigated the utilization of various low Global
Warming Potential value Refrigerants in VCRS along with natural
refrigerants. Authors used various combinations eg. (Ammonia,
R718, and R744) and HC like propane isobutene and Hydrofluro-
carbons like R161 etc. Additionally Based on rigorous literature
review and comparison of results obtained in this research for less
GWP Refrigerants authors gave Guidelines for utilization of these
heat pumps.
Kibria et al. [15] has investigated direct and indirect impacts of
GWP for air-conditioning systems considering the three HFC refrig-
erants. In this research also assessed warming impacts in terms of
cooling load, (COP), evaporation temperature, and condensation
temperature for different locations in Japan. From Results of this
research showed that HFC based refrigerants like R134a and R32
have lower global warming impact compared to that of R410A
refrigerant.McLinden and Huber [16] studied evolution of refriger-
ants also, inferred that that the refrigerants will keep on develop-
ing from here on out and it will be steadily changing imperatives
that will drive this advancement. For selection of refrigerants
molecules we are almost aware about and in coming days con-
strains would be minimized. As an example to have very less
GWP value it will be allowed to use slight more flammable refrig-
erant having small ODP value as a return.
Gaurav and Kumar [17] due to motor vehicle act in Europe
higher GWP value refrigerant not allowed to use hence there is
ultimate need to find out alternative refrigerant. Hence,introduced
examination of VCRS for figuring out drop-in substitution for
R134a.Considering R134a as a base almost 30 refrigerants were
tested for parameters like mass flow, COP, cooling limit etc. The
outcomes showed that among all tried refrigerants R290 was hav-
ing high COP but less efficiency and also Blend of R134a/R1234yf/
R1234ze is best option for R134a. Sun et al. [18] in order to study
alternative refrigerant on technical basis and and suitability in cas-
cade system investigated difference in parameters along with
evaporator temperature. The fundamental thought process of this
research was to figure out alternative refrigerant and furthermore
its application in cascade refrigeration system. From results it can
also be stated as R1150 best suited in LT System, R170in MT Sys-
tem and R717 in HT system. But while using R717 environmental
impact also needs to be considered.
Polonara et al. [19] portrayed phase down of HFC Refrigerants
carried out by Monotreal protocol. Authors also briefed about
reduction plan for use of hydroflurocarbon in developed as well
as developing countries. Additionally it was examined effects of
alteration involving low GWP refrigerants. Along with giving brief
description about Kigali Amendment also explained how it’s going
to impact use of less GWP value refrigerant and further research.
Also issues with flammability of less GWP value refrigerant needs
to be addressed. Kasaeian et al. [20] presented thorough review
about ecofriendly refrigerant and nanofluids. Logical investigations
about the ecofriendly refrigerants will progress and lead towards
maintainability of refrigeration industry. There is worldwide con-
cern about adopting refrigerants like hydrofluoroolefins etc and
depleting use of HFC due to Global warming potential value.
Though much research is to be done to find out alternative eco-
friendly refrigerant and its application from current research it
can be stated that these are having bright future in coming days.
Authors have also mentioned some of limitations on their applica-
tion s like Low latent heat of R744 and less thermal conductivity of
R1234yf and also suggested performance of nanofluid refrigerant
to be tested in more real applications.
2.2. Effect of mixing of nanofluids with primary refrigerant
Shankar Prasad et al. [21] concentrated on investigation of VCRS
using R134a along with nanofluid AL2O3 in primary and auxiliary
cycles respectively and it was suggested that R134a can be used as
an best option for improving heat transfer in VCRS System. As
motive of this research was to analyze system thermally for pri-
mary fluid along with nanofluid and various parameters like per-
S. Kulkarni, S. Chavali and S. Dikshit Materials Today: Proceedings xxx (xxxx) xxx
3
formance, heat transfer, when used along with nanorefrigerant and
environment friendly refrigerant were studied and also suggested
this study will help EES software for further analysis. Ajayi et al.
[22] researched the impact of Al2O3 when utilized in Refrigeration
system along with R134a. Authors have used nanofluid without
any modification in existing system and carried out performance
investigation with energy utilization examination. It has been
found that rather than using conventional system along with
R134a use of nanofluids will give better outcome and also rate of
cooling was more. Accordingly, reasoned that utilizing Al2O3
nanoparticles in blend with the R134a can be suggested as perfor-
mance will be good.
Yogesh Joshi et al. [23] explored the presentation of Al2O3
nanofluid in VCRS. Though use on naofluids have found effective
in refrigeration system still there is need to study further about
its suitability For this research nanofluid is combined in different
mass parts and R134a and isobutene was used for analysis pur-
pose. From outcomes it showed that Isobutane Mineral oil and
Al2o3 gives almost 40 % increment in COP. Senthilkumar et al.
[24] has completed audit to concentrate on the impact of expan-
sion of nanoparticles in refrigerants. While summarizing different
methods for achieving increase in cop and less power consumption
review was done to find out effects of nanorefrigerants.Also noted
some of findings as combinations of nanoparticles and refrigerant
gives enhancement of COP which includes R140 and Diamond,
R600a and graphene, Al2o3 and 600aetc.
Adelekan et al. [25] tentatively concentrated on execution of
Tio2 Nanoparticle when blended in with Isobutane as a functioning
liquid. With less modification in current setup various tests like
pull down test was performed along with combination of TIO2
and Isobutane. Result showed that Instead of using R600a i.e.
Isobutane along with Tio2 gives better performance and with
specific percentage of nanofluid highest COP can be achieved.
Nair et al. [26] researched the impact of nanofluid on execution
of the VCRS considering parameters like COP etc. Because of desir-
able thermal properties Aluminium oxide was selected over other
nanofluids in this research. Various performance parameters were
compared for Polyalkylene glycol along with base fluid and nano-
fluid and From analysis carried out at different evaporator and con-
denser temperatures it was observed that use of nanofluids will
greatly increase subcooling and ultimately COP.
Marcucci Pico et al. [27] tentatively explored the utilization of
nanolubricants with two different compositions of synthetic oil
and diamond nanoparticle considering parameters like COP.
Exploratory arrangement has been prepared along with diamond
additives when having condenser temperature constant with use
of compressor scroll type outcome showed that use of nanoparti-
cles will increase COP and cooling capacity. Babarinde et al. [28]
Concentrated on the utilization of graphene nanolubricant for
improving performance of VCRS using Isobutane. After preparing
different concentration of graphene and mixed with base fluid it
was found that Isobutane performance along with nanofluids
was better when compared with base lubricant. Thus it was
inferred that graphene nanolubricant can be utilized as an alterna-
tive in mineral oil in VCRS.
Sendil Kumar and Elansezhian [29] have explored execution of
VCRS with ZnO Nanoparticles. Considering safety on nanoparticles
Zno Nanoparticle mixed with refrigerant R152a. Experimental
setup was prepared to test execution of different percentage of
ZnO along with difluoroethane. While mixing nanoparticle for
enhanced heat transfer its concentration is important part. With
use of aforesaid system improved energy utilization along with
reduction in evaporator temperature was achieved. Ahmed [30]
has reviewed strategy of using nano fluids as secondary refrigerant
in another loop and its analysis in refrigeration unit. The explicit
use of this kind of arrangement can be seen in freezers and coolers
etc. In this arrangement auxiliary loop was acquired across the
evaporator where refrigerant R134a Tetrafluoroethane removes
heat from nanofluid. In this setup shell and coil type evaporator
is used in which nanofluid is used in shell side and primary refrig-
erant streams through coils. Different tests has been carried out for
nanofluid Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) with different stream rates,
concentration and temperatures and found that the changed
framework showed prevalent execution and greatest COP was
accomplished when nanofluid was utilized in contrasted with base
liquid while working at similar conditions.
Okonkwo et al. [31] surveyed investigations for year 2019 for
headway in making of nanofluids and their use for different appli-
cations ranging from HEX to electronic equipment cooling. As sug-
gested by authors motive behind this review is to make readers
aware about ongoing advancements also difficulties involved in
practical use of nanofluids. Also, benefits and bad marks of
nanofluids were introduced alongside remarks for future investiga-
tions that would contribute towards commercialization of nanoflu-
ids. Jiang et al. [32] examined to point out research gap along with
providing relevant way to focus for future work and also uncovered
type relevant proportions of nanofluids. Absorption ARS system is
now getting more attention because of deficiency of essential
energy but when considered alongside VCRS ARS has lower effec-
tiveness and it is challenging to scale down. In this way, ARS has
been confined somewhat concerning improvement. However
endeavours have been made to work on the exhibition of ARS, par-
ticularly founded on nanofluids to further develop intensity and
mass exchange effectiveness. In this research, the pre-
examination of nanofluids talked about in ARS are primarily iso-
lated into arrangement interaction and strength examination, ther-
modynamic properties and the impact of nanoparticles on the
entire ARS, and so forth.
Kumar and Sonawane [33] estimated characteristics of Iron
oxide along with water and ethylene glycol for shell and tube type
HEX for laminar and turbulent flow conditions. Different flow rates
and concentrations were used for this work. From results it has
been found that use of nanofluids will result in ultimate increase
in rate of heat transfer. The impact of Iron Oxide nano particles
on the conductivity of base liquids like ethylene glycol and water
was examined and as the convergence of the nanoparticles
expanded, there was a huge improvement in conductivity and
due to more communication between particles. It was additionally
saw that there was an improvement in the conductivity of the base
liquid as the temperature expanded. Said et al. [34] evolved a
hypothetical model along with exploratory work to approve out-
comes.From the results it has found that there was an enhance-
ment in convective type heat transfer coefficient nearly 12
percent when use of nanofluids was compared with basefluid.
Examination for co2 emissions and cost prediction which is called
as Lifecycle Analysis carried out by software Eco Audit. The out-
comes showed that the proposed new framework is financially rea-
sonable and harmless to the ecosystem.
Gupta et al. [35] has performed vast review considering
almost 160 research papers and also investigation was done on
characteristics of nanofluids and how prepared. Authors have also
highlighted application and limitations for hybrid nanofluid use.
This audit talks about a few variables influencing the thermo-
physical property; including shape temperatures etc. There are
numerous outcomes showing effect of ingredients on perfor-
mance. This survey likewise uncovers that legitimate portrayal
of hybrid nanofluids brings about more proficient when con-
trasted with single nanoparticle fluid. Nonetheless, more serious
research is required towards the determination of appropriate
hybrid nanorefrigerant. Bhattad et al. [36] Taking into account
energy natural concern, the performance of refrigeration frame-
work should be improved, which is possible by changing either
S. Kulkarni, S. Chavali and S. Dikshit Materials Today: Proceedings xxx (xxxx) xxx
4
the design parameters or properties of working fluid i.e. refriger-
ant. Nowadays use of nanofluid or hybrid fluid becoming popular
because of its excellent characteristics and so that easily accom-
modated in existing system and found large number of applica-
tions. This survey sums up the investigations on preparation
and portrayal of nanofluids, different properties like thickness,
conductivity, and so on. Also difficulties faced in application of
nanofluids like Synthesis of low boiling point refrigerant were
discussed.
Said et al. [37] reviewed application of nanofluids in solar col-
lectors in two parts. Solar irradiation is getting converted into
either heat energy or electrical energy with help of solar collectors
and nanofluids plays very important role in adding to effectiveness
of solar collector. There are some phenomenon’s happening which
were reviewed in this first part along with analytical study and in
the second part of review was focused on collecting information of
applications of nanofluids in solar collectors at different tempera-
tures. Different types of solar collectors were studied in second
part including flat plate, PV Systems having wide range of applica-
tions from domestic water heating to power generation. Emphasiz-
ing on current issues and future advancements it was concluded
that though there are issues with stability with use of nanofluid
performance improvement near about 5 percent obtained when
used in solar collectors. Further scope for use of nanofluid in PV
suggested as more enhancement in performance. Chauhan [38]
explored performance of ice plant setup having tetrafluro ethane
as primary working fluid and by using nanofluids as Aluminium
oxide and Silicon Dioxide with different percentage. Various
parameters were considered to measure its performance like
COP, Tank temperature etc. Thermocouples are located at different
locations along with pressure gauges. For above mentioned nano-
fluid combinations of near about 0.1 percent highest coefficient
of performance was achieved. Authors also mentioned that instead
of using in combination of nanofluids if mixed alone will give more
COP and low power consumption.
Yang et al. [39] investigated effect on nanofluids when added
with primary refrigerant along with lubricants. Nanofluids are hav-
ing wide advantages like zero ozone depletion potential very less
global warming potential along with enhancement in heat transfer
rate. It was found that with either increase in percentage or
decrease in size will enhance parameters like thermal conductivity.
Parameters affecting boiling and condensation are vapour dryness
and dosing on nanofluids etc. Along with these some ideas as
future scope was given for non consistent behaviour of nanorefrig-
erant and parameters like micro level heat transfer, phase change
etc. R et al. [40] while evaluating available literature found that
almost 10–12 % of review was focusing on negative side of using
nanorefrigerant and how it’s affecting on heat transfer. Also most
of research work was focused on use of aluminium oxide or cooper
oxide as a nanorefrigerant used along with base fluid because of its
stability compared with others. While briefing about best tech-
nologies for improving performance of system suggested zeotropic
blend of difluoromethane and pentafluoroethane can be best alter-
native in coming days.
Olabi et al. [41] summed up the utilization of nanofluids in heat
exchangers (HExs) when employed in different geometries. Perfor-
mance of any refrigeration system was improved when nanoparti-
cles are added in primary refrigerant. Though there is increment in
power consumption it has been found that with increase in per-
centage of nanoparticles ultimately result in increment in heat
transfer. Analytical studies for one and two phase models out of
which single phase found to be more efficient. From discussion it
has been observed that nanofluids performed well with almost
every type of heat exchanger geometry and it is mainly going to
affect surfaces are coming in contact and finally resulting in
enhancement of heat transfer.
3. Conclusion
In conventional VCRS most commonly used refrigerant is HFC-
R134a due to its low cost and excellent thermodynamic properties.
However for following best environment practices use of R134a to
be prohibited in coming days. There are also some difficulties while
using R134a like higher Global Warming Potential value and its
immiscibility with natural oil. Hence is need to find long term
alternative refrigerant/refrigerant blends which will be meeting
standards of international protocols and will increase performance
when incorporated in system.
Hence, from literature review carried out it has been found that
use of HC Mixture, different refrigerant blends will be having low
GWP impact as well as improvement in performance. Also, Use
of nanoparticles along with base refrigerant like R134a can be sug-
gested as better option for enhanced heat transfer and Nanofluids
are having wide advantages like very less global warming potential
along with enhancement in heat transfer rate.
Following are major findings pointed out from literature review.
(1) Hydrocarbon Mixture of Propane and Isobutane could be
considered as an option to R134a in domestic refrigerators.
Also R436A, R290 can be used as best substitute to R134a.
(2) R1234yf Refrigerant is similar to R134a while considering
parameters like operating pressure and operating tempera-
ture, but it is resulting in decrement of coefficient of perfor-
mance (COP). It is also best possible alternative in
automobile air conditioning and can be incorporated with
least modifications.
(3) R134a/LPG refrigeration system performs better than R134a
refrigeration system under similar experimental conditions.
(4) R290 (60 %) and R600a (40 %) composition is having best
performance considering parameters like mass flow rate,
COP etc.
(5) Refrigerants like R134a and R32 have lower GWP impact
compared to that of R410A refrigerant.
(6) Refrigerant Blend R134a, R1234yf and R1234ze with sug-
gested percentage was suggested as an option in contrast
for R134a and also R717 can be good option for large refrig-
eration systems.
(7) Al2O3 or ZnO when dispersed performed better than that of
the traditional working fluid mixture.
(8) From experimental results by using R600a-Mineral Oil along
with Al2O3 mixture gives better C.O.P. and achieves reduc-
tion in power over conventional VCRS. Also TiO2-Isobutane
nano-refrigerant works efficiently and its performance was
better than with only Isobutane system.
CRediT authorship contribution statement
Sourabh Kulkarni: Conceptualization, Methodology, Formal
analysis, Investigation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review
& editing. Shriramshastri Chavali: Conceptualization, Methodol-
ogy, Formal analysis, Supervision, Investigation, Writing - original
draft, Writing - review & editing. Shruti Dikshit: Investigation,
Methodology, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing.
Data availability
Data will be made available on request.
Declaration of Competing Interest
The authors declare that they have no known competing finan-
cial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared
to influence the work reported in this paper.
S. Kulkarni, S. Chavali and S. Dikshit Materials Today: Proceedings xxx (xxxx) xxx
5
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank all the researchers who have
carried out research to find out the alternative eco-friendly refrig-
erant and performed experimentation to find out various possible
ways to increase performance of Refrigeration System, thus provid-
ing us base for review. Authors want to express gratitude toward
Department of Mechanical Engineering, DYPU, Ambi, Pune for all
the help and support.
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