HFC-365mfc and HFC-245fa Progress in Application of New HFC Blowing Agents

Abstract

For a few years now we have regularly reported our progress in the evaluation of possible 3rd generation blowing agents, and we have come to the conclusion that HFC-245fa and HFC-365mfc are the two leading candidates. Previous work included lab scale evaluation of foam samples, measurements of the main relevant physico-chemical characteristics, as well as a thorough evaluation of the chemical stability of HFC-365mfc and HFC-245fa in rigid polyurethane foams [1]. With larger quantities now available from our micropilot plant in Hannover, Germany, we have been able to enlarge our knowledge of HFC-365mfc to allow a sound comparison with the data already available for HFC-245fa. In particular, physico-chemical characteristics have been refined and new ones have been measured; the evaluation of the chronic toxicity of HFC-365mfc is ongoing with first data reported here. Most importantly, additional lab scale tests and large scale trials on industrial lines have been performed to allow an in-depth study of performances in rigid polyurethane foams. This paper completes our previous reports to offer the unique comprehensive comparison of HFC-365mfc and HFC-245fa.