United States. The chemical company Chemours announced that its decision to suspend the commercialization in the country of Freon 404A (R-404A) and Freon 507 (R-507) became effective on May 2.
Together with the inventors of the Freon and Opteon refrigerant portfolios, Chemours has chosen to support global environmental initiatives in this way, facilitating the industry's transition to lower GWP solutions.
The strategy aligns with regulatory reductions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), outlined in the American Manufacturing and Innovation Act (AIM) and the Canadian Ozone-Depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives (ODSHAR) Regulations.
"The AIM Act outlines an ambitious program that calls for a significant phase-out in HFC sales and consumption, with a projected 40% reduction by 2024. This goal helped determine the timing of our announcement, and we are confident that this decision will contribute significantly to our customers meeting their sustainability goals." said Doug Westerhoff, director of Americas sales for Chemours Thermal and Specialty Solutions.
Chemours continues to work closely with its customers and partners to provide them with the best alternatives for their applications and markets, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.
Opteon XP40 (R-449A) is a cost-effective option for existing R-404A/R-507 applications, while Opteon XL40 (R-454A) and XL20 (R-454C) products are good alternatives for new equipment that will meet future EPA technology transition standards.
"By ceasing to supply refrigerants with higher GWP, Chemours is taking a clear step toward real change, underscoring the need for an industry-wide commitment to this global responsibility. Chemours will continue to invest in research and development to power next-generation refrigerants and other sustainable solutions. Chemours supports the spirit of the AIM Act. That is, to drive the market towards more sustainable chemistry by limiting sales of legacy HFC materials with high global warming potential," the company said.
