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Volume 13 | Issue 7 | Year 2026 | Article Id. IJME-V13I7P106 | DOI : https://doi.org/10.14445/23488360/IJME-V13I7P106

Review of Alternative Refrigerants R32 and R1234yf with Nanofluid Applications for Enhanced Performance of Air Conditioning Systems

Dhanashree Ware, R. S. Shelke

Received Revised Accepted Published
17 Feb 2026 25 Mar 2026 03 Jul 2026 30 Jul 2026

Citation :

Dhanashree Ware, R. S. Shelke, "Review of Alternative Refrigerants R32 and R1234yf with Nanofluid Applications for Enhanced Performance of Air Conditioning Systems," International Journal of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 13, no. 7, pp. 69-79, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488360/IJME-V13I7P106

Abstract

The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) sector is undergoing a major shift in gears in accordance with the international environmental regulations that mandate a reduced rate of emission of greenhouse gases. Traditional fridges like R134a and R410A are highly efficient, but have a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), which makes them not viable in the long term. There has appeared an opportunity for low-GWP alternatives, especially R32 and R1234yf, with desirable thermophysical characteristics and lesser environmental effects. In order to improve the performance of the system and increasing heat transfer, the use of nanoparticles has been increased. In this review article, the research articles based on the application of nanofluids using R32 or R1234yf in the vapor compression systems has been critically reviewed. The focus is on the increase of the Coefficient of Performance (COP), exergy efficiency, reduction of compressor work, and the temperature of discharge. The possible applications of such combinations to achieve a high level of energy savings and sustainability goals are demonstrated by comparative analysis with the base refrigerants. However, some issues, such as stability of nanoparticles, compatibility with materials, flammability, and the scalability of cost, continue to be major obstacles to generalization. Future research directions, such as advanced hybrid nanofluids, predictive modeling with AI/ML assistance, life cycle and techno-economic analysis, and the formation of an international standard, are also found in the article. All in all, creating a novel approach to nanofluids that incorporates refrigerants like R32 and R1234yf is a promising avenue in the development of the next-generation, high-efficiency, and environmental friendly air conditioning systems.

Keywords

Low-GWP refrigerants, R32, R1234yf, Nanofluids, Air conditioning systems.

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