HFO VS HFC

In early 2021, new regulations took effect in the U.S. to phase out harmful greenhouse gases called hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs. HFCs are made up of fluorine and hydrogen atoms. They are found in blowing agents used in spray foam roof adhesive and insulation. The industrial chemical allows the material to “foam up,” expand, and deliver great thermal resistance (R-value). Hydrofluorocarbons are also found in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.  

While HFCs have great thermal resistance, they also come with high global warming potential (GWP). Products with high GWP trap more heat in the earth's atmosphere and thus contribute more to global warming. 

 What is HFC 245fa, 365 MFC and 227A  ?

Blowing agent's 245 FA 365 MFC and 227A are all HFC blowing agents. An HFC or 245 FA offers proven insulating performance and excellent materials compatibility. 245fa blowing agent (HFC-245fa) is a proven replacement for HCFC-141b and other hydrofluorocarbon and Non fluorocarbon blowing agents in rigid polyurethane foam. The blowing Agent 245 Fa has been in use in the Spray foam Industry for many decades and provides a less expensive vs a HFO product and for that reason will continue to be used in the foam industry until a comparable blowing agent is discovered. 

 HFC-245fa is an addition to the growing number of hydrofluorocarbons developed to replace CFCs and  HCFCs. HFO Blowing agents will now be replacing or adding to developing blowing agents available for use in the Spray foam industry.

If HFCs are a no-go, then what's the alternative? More climate-friendly blowing agents, like HFO! HFO (hydrofluoroolefin) blowing agents are not flammable, have zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), and are low GWP. A low GWP product doesn't trap heat in the earth's atmosphere to contribute to global warming. 

More and more, HFO blowing agents are being required for any pressurized two-part urethane foam or adhesive. During application, the HFO blowing agent is secured inside millions of closed cells. Blowing agent restrictions for Spray foam Materials are not in place everywhere but likely will be in the next few years. 

Benefits include: 

• Climate-friendly with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)
• Fast installation, minimal flash off time
• Applies in low temperatures, as low as 40˚ F (4˚ C)

Transitioning from HFC blowing agents to HFO blowing agents is an essential step in reducing the climate impact of the building and roofing industry.