Transport of 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluorobutane (HFC-365mfc) in Rigid Polyurethane Foam and Polyethylene

Abstract

This study focuses on the mass transfer properties of 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane (HFC-365mfc) in the insulating system used in most district heating pipes produced today, namely rigid polyurethane (PUR) foam with a protective layer of polyethylene (HDPE). The solubility, permeability and diffusion coefficients for HFC-365mfc in PUR foam and HDPE have been determined. The coefficients for HFC-365mfc in PUR foam are very similar to those of cyclopentane, currently the most common blowing agent in PUR foams used for district heating pipes in Europe. The polyethylene casing is a better diffusion barrier for HFC-365mfc than it is for cyclopentane. However, the main mass transfer resistance of HFC-365mfc in a district heating pipe is found in the PUR foam.