H134a

H134a, also known as R-134a or tetrafluoroethane, is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant. It was developed as a replacement for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) like R-12, which were phased out due to their ozone-depleting properties. H134a does not deplete the ozone layer. It has been widely used in automotive air conditioning systems, as well as in domestic refrigerators and some industrial refrigeration applications.

The chemical formula for H134a is CH2FCF3. It is a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure, but it is typically handled as a liquefied gas under pressure. Its thermodynamic properties make it suitable for refrigeration cycles, effectively transferring heat. While it is not flammable, it can decompose at high temperatures, potentially producing toxic and corrosive substances such as hydrogen fluoride.

H134a has a global warming potential (GWP) of approximately 1,430 over a 100-year period. This means it traps significantly more heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. Due to its GWP, there is a global effort to transition away from H134a to refrigerants with lower environmental impact. Regulations in various regions are increasingly restricting its use and promoting alternatives. For example, in the automotive industry, newer refrigerants with lower GWPs are being adopted.