chlorofluorocarbonbased

Chlorofluorocarbon-based compounds are a class of carbon-containing chemicals in which chlorine and fluorine atoms are bound to carbon. They include a variety of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and related halogenated hydrocarbons that are typically highly stable, nonflammable, and relatively nonreactive under ordinary conditions. These properties made them valuable as refrigerants, solvents, foam blowing agents, propellants in aerosol products, and manufacturing intermediates from the mid-20th century onward.

Despite practical benefits, chlorofluorocarbon-based substances were found to persist in the atmosphere and to release chlorine atoms in the stratosphere when exposed to ultraviolet light. The chlorine catalytically destroys ozone in the ozone layer, leading to thinning and seasonal ozone holes. This ozone depletion raised risks to living organisms and to climate-related processes. The most widely known impact is increased ultraviolet radiation reaching Earth's surface.

International action began with the Montreal Protocol of 1987, with subsequent amendments phasing out production and use of CFCs and related compounds. In developed nations, production and many uses of most CFCs were eliminated or severely restricted by the 1990s, with developing countries implementing controls in later years. Substitutes such as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and non-ozone-depleting alternatives have largely replaced many applications, although some sectors still rely on legacy stocks or exemptions.

Beyond ozone effects, many chlorofluorocarbon-based compounds are also potent greenhouse gases with high global warming potentials, contributing to long-term climate change. Ongoing efforts focus on reducing emissions, developing low-GWP refrigerants, improving leak detection and recovery, and safely phasing out remaining stocks while ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness in applications.