Atmospheric chemical reactivity and ozone-forming potentials of potential CFC replacements
- AEA Technology, Oxforshire (United Kingdom)
- Meteorological Office, Berkshire (United Kingdom)
The Montreal Protocol will lead to the eventual phaseout of the production of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)and other halogenated organic compounds that are implicated in the depletion of stratospheric ozone. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been developed as potential `in-kind` replacement compounds. Industry and regulatory agencies are assessing the safety, toxicology, and environmental impact of the HCFCs and HFCs before widespread production is commenced. One of the environmental issues concerns the contribution that the HCFCs and HFCs make to photochemical ozone production. Photochemical ozone creation potentials (POCPs) have been calculated using a photochemical trajectory model. The POCPs of the HCFCs and HFCs are low. This results from their low reactivity compared to the other, more reactive, organic compounds present during a photochemical episode. HCFCs and HFCs also contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change. However, we are still unable to assess with any degree of certainty the benefits or the harm that might result from switching to the use of HCFCs and HFCs. 2 refs., 2 figs., 5 tabs.
- OSTI ID:
- 460034
- Journal Information:
- Environmental Science and Technology, Journal Name: Environmental Science and Technology Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 31; ISSN 0013-936X; ISSN ESTHAG
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and electric utilities: Making the transition to a safer world
Evaluating CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) alternatives from the atmospheric viewpoint