How BASF made the shift from HFCs to HFOs

Over the past years, the industry has shifted from using hydroflurocarbon-based blowing agents (HFCs) to hydrofluoroolefin-based blowing agents (HFOs). It’s a change that’s vital for both the climate and ozone layer, and one that BASF has fully embraced. 

From CFCs to HFOs

The story starts with CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, and HCFCs, hydrochlorofluorocarbons. Used in refrigerators, air conditioners, and foam applications around the world from the 1930s onwards, they were common but released reactive chlorine into the atmosphere, accelerating holes in the ozone layer. 

To halt the damage, HFCs were created as a substitute. While the ozone damage was alleviated, HFCs posed a new threat with their global warming potential. The most abundant HFC is 3,790 times more damaging to the climate than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. This threat catalyzed the development of HFOs and prompted a shift to phase out HFCs.

“To put it into perspective, the CFC molecule would last in the atmosphere for 70 years,” says Michael Krupa, Technical Manager, Consumer Products at BASF Performance Materials. “With HFCs, we’re talking about a number of years. HFOs only last for days. That’s why, if you look at the environmental impact of HFOs, they are significantly improved.”  

The Montreal Protocol 

These changes were made thanks to the Montreal Protocol, a landmark agreement that regulates the production and consumption of chemicals that deplete the ozone. Its signing had huge results, with recent research showing the ozone hole has shrunk dramatically. 

Making the change from HFCs to HFOs specifically is a result of the Kigali Amendment, which came into force in 2019 as part of the Montreal Protocol. It agreed to phase down HFCs with committed countries agreeing to reduce their consumption between 80 and 85% by the late 2040s. Doing so would avoid over 70 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide, and a warming of up to 0.5°C by the century’s end. 

A multi-market solution 

Today, HFOs are used in products across a range of markets. 

One key product is spray foam, which is used in the construction industry to increase a building’s energy efficiency by reducing air leakage. The switch from HFCs to HFOs means effective spray foams don’t just offer easy, consistent application but are better for the environment.  

Krupa explains how they’re also used in ice machines and commercial refrigeration. “There’s a common theme between spray foam and refrigeration. The foam is doing the same job; trying to keep the temperature regulated and reduce energy use of the appliance or, in the case of a building, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.” 

BASF’s approach

As a company that’s on a constant mission to act responsibly when it comes to the environment, its uptake on the shift from HFC to HFO technology has been proactive. Krupa shares how BASF has been a leader in HFO polyurethane chemistries.

In order to do that with the best, most efficient results, a personal approach is required. Krupa explains how the BASF team worked to formulate HFO solutions across their complete portfolio of rigid foam materials. “We tailored these products to customer specific applications and needs to ensure the products our customers use work in their processes.” 

Mike Fritz, BASF’s Senior Product Steward for Performance Materials North America, has also seen the educational role the business has played in the shift. “We have a lot of resources and regulatory knowledge we use to shepherd our customers through the HFC to HFO conversion process. In that way, we’re accelerating change across the manufacturing sector.” 

Shifting from HFCs to HFOs has been hugely positive for the environment. BASF is committed to leading the change and will continue to guide new and existing customers towards a better future for our planet.