What are the key markets for HCs today?
Domestic Refrigeration: By far, the biggest markets for HCs at the moment are domestic refrigerators and freezers. Isobutane is used in 100% of all new home fridges in Germany, and in 50% of all new Chinese models. HC refrigerators are also sold in Western Europe, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Cuba, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, and Russia. Overall, there are more than 300 million HC refrigerators running worldwide (2008). Commercial Refrigeration: Propane (R290) and CO2 (R744) are used together in cascade supermarket refrigeration systems to provide high temperature and low temperature cooling for foodstuff. HCs have been used in supermarkets, dairies, institutes, and hospitals. Air Conditioning: A large Italian manufacturer is marketing propane cooled portable air conditioners since 1995, and has now expanded the HC product range to split system air conditioners for office and domestic use. A/C using HCs are also operating reliably in universities, hospitals, and public institut
