What is the primary chemical family that serves as the building block for most modern refrigerants?

The primary chemical family that serves as the building block for most modern refrigerants is fluorocarbons. Fluorocarbons, specifically hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), are widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems due to their favorable thermodynamic properties and lower environmental impact compared to their predecessors, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

Fluorocarbons are effective at absorbing and releasing heat, making them well-suited for use in HVAC systems. They have low toxicity, low flammability, and are stable under a variety of conditions, contributing to their popularity in modern applications. The predominance of fluorocarbons in the refrigerant market aligns with international efforts to phase out more harmful substances, resulting in a transition toward refrigerants with lower ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP).

While hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and amines are also used in specific applications, they do not serve as the primary building blocks for the majority of modern refrigerants. Hydrocarbons, for example, are employed in some systems due to their efficiency and low environmental impact but are less common in large-scale applications due to flammability concerns