Computational screening of new high voltage insulation gases with low global warming potential

We systematically screen chemical compounds for their suitability as high voltage insulation gases on the basis of electrical, environmental and safety characteristics. Recently, 1234 compounds were identified out of a library of over 56000 chemicals by means of virtual screening. The authors applied filters for the global warming potential (GWP), toxicity, stability, flammability and critical temperature to find promising candidate refrigerant fluids. We estimate the electric strength (ES) and the boiling point of these environmentally friendly compounds to select promising SF6 replacement candidates. The most promising candidates within our method are predominantly Fluoro-alkenes, -alkylsulfides, -alcohols and-alkylamines. In addition, risk and safety data was compiled for compounds that are supplied by chemical vendors at this date, resulting in 7 preliminary candidates.