HCFC123

HCFC-123, chemically known as 2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon. It was developed as a transitional refrigerant and blowing agent, intended to replace ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) such as CFC-11. HCFC-123 has a relatively low ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to many of the CFCs it replaced.

Its primary applications have included use in large centrifugal chillers for air conditioning systems and as a foam blowing agent for certain types of insulation. In refrigeration, it has been valued for its thermodynamic properties, offering efficient cooling. As a blowing agent, it helps create the cellular structure in foam materials.

Despite its advantages over CFCs, HCFC-123 is still considered an ozone-depleting substance, albeit to a lesser extent. Due to international agreements like the Montreal Protocol and its subsequent amendments, the production and consumption of HCFCs, including HCFC-123, are being phased out globally. Developed countries have largely completed their phase-out, while developing countries are following a later schedule. The search for and implementation of even more environmentally benign alternatives continue.