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NEW CHEMICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR OZONE-DEPLETING SUBSTANCES: HFC-236FA
Citation:
Smith*, N D., T G. Brna*, C Gage*, AND R. Hendriks*. NEW CHEMICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR OZONE-DEPLETING SUBSTANCES: HFC-236FA. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/R-97/065 (NTIS PB97-186308), 1997.
Impact/Purpose:
information
Description:
The report gives results of a preliminary evaluation of a new hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)--HFC-236fa or 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane--as a possible alternative for chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-114 (1,2-dichloro-1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane) refrigerant for chillers and as a possible fire suppressant replacement for halon-1301 (bromotrifluoromethane). (NOTE: HFCs form a class of chemicals having the potential to replace stratospheric ozone depleting substances such as CFCs and hydrochlorofluorocarbons.) Evaluation tests included an examination of flammability, stability, atmospheric lifetime, thermophysical properties, lubricant miscibility and solubility, materials compatibility, inhalation toxicity, refrigeration performance, heat transfer characteristics and flame suppression. Results of these evaluations indicate that HFC-236fa is a viable alternative for CFC-114 refrigerant and for halon-1301 or -1211 fire extinguishing agent. Its relatively long atmospheric lifetime may be a concern from a global warming perspective.