1. Context

1.1 Environment and regulations

The six major greenhouse gases (GHGs) mentioned in the Kyoto Protocol (CO ₂ , CH ₄ , N ₂ O, HFCs, PFCs, SF ₆ ) must be taken more seriously and their emissions considerably reduced.

HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons, synthetic refrigerants that have replaced HCFCs, hydrochlorofluorocarbons) are widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump equipment.

It should be noted that they are targeted by a European emissions reduction project starting in 2016, and a (European) ban scheduled to run from 2020 to 2025. Environmental...