Federal Register, Volume 59 Issue 165 (Friday, August 26, 1994)

[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 165 (Friday, August 26, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 94-20802]

[[Page Unknown]]

[Federal Register: August 26, 1994]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part III

Environmental Protection Agency

_______________________________________________________________________

40 CFR Part 82

Protection of Stratospheric Ozone; Final Rule
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 82

[FRL-5057-3]

Protection of Stratospheric Ozone

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency.

ACTION: Notice of Acceptability.

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SUMMARY: This notice expands the list of acceptable substitutes for
ozone depleting substances (ODSs) under the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP)
program. SNAP implements section 612 of the amended Clean Air Act of
1990 whereby EPA is required to evaluate substitutes for the ODSs, and
regulate the use of substitutes where other alternatives exist that
reduce overall risk to human health and the environment. Through these
evaluations, SNAP generates lists of acceptable and unacceptable
substitutes for each of the major industrial use sectors.
On March 18, 1994, EPA promulgated its plan for administering the
SNAP program, and issued decisions on the acceptability and
unacceptability of a number of substitutes (59 FR 13044). In today's
Notice, EPA is issuing decisions on the acceptability of certain
substitutes not previously reviewed by the Agency. The intended effect
of this action is to expedite movement away from ozone depleting
compounds. To arrive at determinations on the acceptability of
substitutes, the Agency completed a cross-media sector end-use
screening assessment of risks to human health and the environment.

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 26, 1994.

ADDRESSES: Information relevant to this notice is contained in Air
Docket A-91-42, Central Docket Section, South Conference Room 4,
Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street SW., Washington, DC
20460. Telephone: (202) 260-7549. The docket may be inspected between 8
a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays. As provided in 40 CFR part 2, a reasonable
fee may be charged for photocopying.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Sally Rand at (202) 233-9739 or fax (202) 233-9577, USEPA,
Stratospheric Protection Division, 401 M Street SW., 6205-J,
Washington, DC 20460.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Overview of This Action

This action is divided into six sections, including this overview:

I. Overview of This Notice

II. Section 612 Program

A. Statutory Requirements
B. Regulatory History

III. Listing of Acceptable Substitutes

IV. Listing of Substitutes Pending Review

V. Additional Information

Appendix A Summary of Acceptable and Pending Decisions

II. Section 612 Program

A. Statutory Requirements

Section 612 of the Clean Air Act authorizes EPA to develop a
program for evaluating alternatives to ozone-depleting substances. EPA
is referring to this program as the Significant New Alternatives Policy
(SNAP) program. The major provisions of section 612 are:
Rulemaking--Section 612(c) requires EPA to promulgate
rules making it unlawful to replace any class I (chlorofluorocarbon,
halon, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide, and
hydrobromofluorocarbon) or class II (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) substance
with any substitute that the Administrator determines may present
adverse effects to human health or the environment where the
Administrator has identified an alternative that: (1) Reduces the
overall risk to human health and the environment, and (2) is currently
or potentially available.
Listing of Unacceptable/Acceptable Substitutes--Section
612(c) also requires EPA to publish a list of the substitutes
unacceptable for specific uses. EPA must publish a corresponding list
of acceptable alternatives for specific uses.
Petition Process--Section 612(d) grants the right to any
person to petition EPA to add a substance to or delete a substance from
the lists published in accordance with section 612(c). The Agency has
90 days to grant or deny a petition. Where the Agency grants the
petition, EPA must publish the revised lists within an additional 6
months.
90-day Notification--Section 612(e) requires EPA to
require any person who produces a chemical substitute for a class I
substance to notify the Agency not less than 90 days before new or
existing chemicals are introduced into interstate commerce for
significant new uses as substitutes for a class I substance. The
producer must also provide the Agency with the producer's unpublished
health and safety studies on such substitutes.
Outreach--Section 612(b)(1) states that the Administrator
shall seek to maximize the use of federal research facilities and
resources to assist users of class I and II substances in identifying
and developing alternatives to the use of such substances in key
commercial applications.
Clearinghouse--Section 612(b)(4) requires the Agency to
set up a public clearinghouse of alternative chemicals, product
substitutes, and alternative manufacturing processes that are available
for products and manufacturing processes which use class I and II
substances.

B. Regulatory History

On March 18, 1994, EPA published the Final Rulemaking (FRM) (59 FR
13044) which described the process for administering the SNAP program
and issued EPA's first acceptability lists for substitutes in the major
industrial use sectors. These sectors include: Refrigeration and air
conditioning; foam blowing; solvent cleaning; fire suppression and
explosion protection; sterilants; aerosols; adhesives, coatings and
inks; and tobacco expansion. These sectors compose the principal
industrial sectors that historically consume the largest volumes of
ozone-depleting compounds.
As described in the final rule for the SNAP program (59 FR 13044),
EPA does not believe that rulemaking procedures are required to list
alternatives as acceptable with no limitations. Such listings do not
impose any sanction, nor do they remove any prior license to use a
substance. Consequently, EPA is adding substances to the list of
acceptable alternatives without first requesting comment on new
listings.
EPA does, however, believe that notice-and-comment rulemaking is
required to place any substance on the list of prohibited substitutes,
to list a substance as acceptable only under certain conditions, to
list substances as acceptable only for certain uses, or to remove a
substance from either the list of prohibited or acceptable substitutes.
Updates to these lists are published as separate notices of rulemaking
in the Federal Register.
The Agency defines a ``substitute'' as any chemical, product
substitute, or alternative manufacturing process, whether existing or
new, that could replace a class I or class II substance. Anyone who
produces a substitute must provide the Agency with health and safety
studies on the substitute at least 90 days before introducing it into
interstate commerce for significant new use as an alternative. This
requirement applies to substitute manufacturers, but may include
importers, formulators or end-users, when they are responsible for
introducing a substitute into commerce.

III. Listing of Acceptable Substitutes

This section presents EPA's most recent acceptable listing
decisions for class I substitutes in the following industrial sectors:
refrigerants and air conditioning, foam blowing, solvent cleaning, fire
suppression and explosion protection; sterilants; aerosols; adhesives,
coatings and inks. These decisions represent substitutes not previously
reviewed in the final rulemaking for SNAP (59 FR 13044; March 18, 1994)
and, consequently, add to the lists of acceptable substitutes under
SNAP. For copies of the full list, contact the EPA Stratospheric
Protection Hotline at the number listed in Section V of this notice.
Parts A through H below present a detailed discussion of the
substitute listing determinations by major use sector. Tables
summarizing listing decisions in this notice are in Appendix A. The
comments contained in Appendix A provide additional information on a
substitute, but like the listings themselves, are not regulatory in
nature, and thus they are not mandatory for use of a substitute. Nor
should the comments be considered comprehensive with respect to other
legal obligations pertaining to the use of the substitute. However, EPA
encourages users of acceptable substitutes to apply all comments to
their use of these substitutes. In many instances, the comments simply
allude to sound operating practices that have already been identified
in existing industry and/or building-code standards. Thus, many of the
comments, if adopted, would not require significant changes in existing
operating practices for the affected industry.
As described in the final rule for the SNAP program, EPA does not
believe that rulemaking procedures are required to list alternatives as
acceptable with no limitations. Such listings do not impose any
sanction, nor do they remove any prior license to use a substitute.
Consequently, EPA is adding substances to the list of acceptable
alternatives without first requesting comment on new listings.
EPA, however, does believe that notice-and-comment rulemaking is
required to place any alternative on the list of prohibited
substitutes, to list a substitute as acceptable only under use
restrictions, or to remove a substitute from either the list of
prohibited or acceptable substitutes. Updates to these lists are
published as separate notices of rulemaking in the Federal Register.

D. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

1. Overview
The refrigeration and air conditioning sector includes all uses of
class I and class II substances to produce cooling, including
mechanical and non-mechanical refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat
transfer. Please refer to the final SNAP rule (59 FR 13044) for a more
detailed description of this sector.
The refrigeration and air conditioning sector is divided into the
following end-uses:
Commercial comfort air conditioning;
Industrial process refrigeration systems;
Industrial process air conditioning;
Ice skating rinks;
Uranium isotope separation processing;
Cole storage warehouses;
Refrigerated transport;
Retail food refrigeration;
Vending machines;
Water coolers;
Commercial ice machines;
Household refrigerators;
Household freezers;
Residential dehumidifiers;
Motor vehicle air conditioning;
Residential air conditioning and heat pumps;
Non-mechanical heat transfer; and
Very low temperature refrigeration.
In addition, each end-use is divided into retrofit and new equipment
applications. EPA has not necessarily reviewed substitutes in every
end-use for this Notice.
EPA has modified the list of end-uses for this sector for this SNAP
update. First, EPA has changed the name of the heat transfer end-use to
non-mechanical heat transfer. This change is intended to avoid
confusion between systems that move heat from a cool area to a warm one
(mechanical refrigeration) and systems that simply aid the movement of
heat away from warm areas (non-mechanical heat transfer). The second
change is that EPA added a new end-use, very low temperature
refrigeration. Substitutes for this end-use have been reviewed since
the final rule, and therefore have been added for this SNAP update.
Finally, EPA has also reviewed substitutes for CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-
503 industrial process refrigeration. Please refer to the final SNAP
rule (59 FR 13044) for a detailed description of end-uses other than
these three. EPA may continue to add other end-uses in future SNAP
updates.
a. Non-mechanical Heat Transfer. As discussed above, this end-use
includes all cooling systems that rely on a fluid to remove heat from a
heat source to a cooler area, rather than relying on mechanical
refrigeration to move heat from a cool area to a warm one. Generally,
there are two types of systems: systems with fluid pumps, referred to
as recirculating coolers, and those that rely on natural convection
currents, known as thermosyphons.
b. Very Low Temperature Refrigeration. Medical freezers, freeze-
dryers, and other small appliances require extremely reliable
refrigeration cycles. These systems must meet stringent technical
standards that do not normally apply to refrigeration systems. They
usually have very small charges. Because they operate at very high
vapor pressures, and because performance is critically affected by any
charge loss, standard maintenance for these systems tends to reduce
leakage to a level considerably below that for other types of
refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
c. CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 Industrial Process Refrigeration. This
end-use differs from other types of industrial refrigeration only in
the extremely low temperature regimes that are required. Although some
substitutes may work in both these extremely low temperatures and in
systems designed to use R-502, they are acceptable only for this end-
use because of global warming and atmospheric lifetime concerns. These
concerns are discussed more fully below.
2. Corrections from the March 18, 1994 FRM
In the FRM, the components of two refrigerants, R-404A and R-507,
were inadvertently reversed. R-507 consists of HFC-125 and HFC-143a and
R-404A consists of HFC-125, HFC-143a, and HFC-134a. These blends were
listed as acceptable for the same end-uses, so the reversal had no
effect on the acceptable status of either refrigerant.
Also in the FRM, EPA listed HFC-134a as acceptable in several CFC-
12 end-uses. In the descriptive text, EPA wrote ``while HFC-134a is
compatible with most existing refrigeration and air conditioning
equipment parts, it is not compatible with mineral oils currently used
in such systems. An ester-based lubricant should be used rather than
mineral oils.'' EPA's intention was to alert users to the need to use
lubricants other than current mineral oils, rather than to recommend a
particular type of new oil. While it remains true that mineral oils are
incompatible with HFC-134a, it is not true that polyol ester oils are
the only replacement. Polyalkylene glycol oils are also available, and
are in fact the predominant choice of the automobile manufacturers.
Therefore, the portion of each listing for HFC-1234a should have read
``An appropriate ester-based, polyalkylene glycol-based, or other type
of lubricant should be used.'' In addition, specifically in the Motor
Vehicle Air Conditioning end-use the listing for HFC-134a should have
included the recommendation to consult the original equipment
manufacturer or the retrofit kit manufacturer for further information.
For clarity, these changes have been incorporated into the listing for
HFC-134a in Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning in the NPRM.
3. Substitutes for Refrigerants
Substitutes fall into eight broad categories. Seven of these
categories are chemical substitutes used in the same vapor compression
cycle as the ozone-depleting substances being replaced. They include
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs),
hydrocarbons, refrigerant blends, ammonia, perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and
chlorine systems. The eighth category includes alternative technologies
that generally do not rely on vapor compression cycles. Please refer to
the final SNAP rule (59 FR 13044) for more discussion of these broad
categories.
4. Listing Decisions
a. Acceptable Substitutes. These determinations are based on data
submitted to EPA and on the risk screen described in the draft
background document entitled ``Risk Screen on the Use of Substitutes
for Class I Ozone-Depleting Substances: Refrigerants''. In accordance
with the guiding principles for SNAP, substitutes were compared both to
the substance they replace and to each other.
EPA believes the use of all acceptable substitutes presents lower
overall risk than the continued use of an ozone-depleting substance.
Not all substitutes will necessarily be appropriate choices for all
systems within an end-use. Engineering decisions must take into account
factors such as operating temperatures and pressures, ambient
conditions, and age of equipment, especially during retrofits. For
example, substitutes listed under industrial process refrigeration may
be listed as acceptable for retrofits for both CFC-12 and R-502
systems. However, these substances exhibit significantly different
thermodynamic characteristics, and a substitute for one may not be
appropriate for use as a substitute for the other. EPA believes such
decisions are most appropriately made by the equipment owner, manager,
or contractor.
Users of HCFCs should be aware that an acceptability determination
shall not be construed to release any user from compliance with all
other regulations pertaining to class II substances. These include: (a)
The prohibition against venting during servicing under section 608,
which was effective July 1, 1992; (b) recycling requirements under
section 608, which were effective July 13, 1993; (c) section 609
regulations regarding MVACS which were effective August 13, 1992; and
(d) the revised production phaseout of class II substances under
section 606, which was published on December 10, 1993. In addition,
users of refrigerants that do not contain chlorine should be aware that
an acceptability determination shall not be construed to release any
user from compliance with the venting prohibition under section
608(c)(2), which takes effect November 15, 1995, at the latest.
Substitutes are listed as acceptable by end-use. These substitutes
have only been found acceptable for use in the specific end-uses for
which they have been reviewed, as described in this section. Users of
blends should be aware that EPA has evaluated and found acceptable in
each case only the specific percentage composition submitted for
review; no others have been evaluated. EPA strongly recommends that
users of alternative refrigerants adhere to the provisions of ASHRAE
Standard 15--Safety Code for Mechanical Refrigeration when applicable.
ASHRAE Standard 34--Number Designation and Safety Classification of
Refrigerants is a useful reference on refrigerant numerical
designations. Users are also strongly encouraged to contain, recycle,
and reclaim all refrigerants.
(1) R-500 Centrifugal Chillers, Retrofit
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for R-500 in retrofitted
centrifugal chillers. Because HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b contribute to ozone
depletion, this blend is considered a transitional alternative.
Regulations regarding recycling and reclamation issued under section
608 of the Clean Air Act apply this blend. HCFC-142b has one of the
highest ODPs among the HCFCs. The GWPs of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b are
somewhat high. Although HCFC-142b is flammable, the blend is not. After
significant leakage, however, this blend may become weakly flammable.
(2) CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 Industrial Process Refrigeration,
Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) HCFC-123.--HCFC-123 is acceptable as a substitutes for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in retrofitted industrial process refrigeration.
Because HCFC-123 contributes to ozone depletion, it is considered a
transitional alternative. Since it poses much lower ozone-depleting
risk than continued use of CFCs, EPA has determined that its use is
acceptable for certain end-uses. In addition, HCFC-123's GWP and
atmospheric lifetime are significantly lower than almost all other
alternatives. HCFC-123 is not flammable. EPA strongly recommends that
users of HCFC-123 adhere to any requirements provided in ASHRAE
Standards 15 and 34. Worker-monitoring studies conducted by EPA
demonstrate that in office building equipment rooms, HCFC-123's 8-hour
time-weighted average concentration can be maintained at or under 1 ppm
(less than the industry-established AEL of 30 ppm), provided that such
standards are followed. HCFC-123 is acceptable for use in commercial
building chillers and should pose no hazard in industrial uses.
(b) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502
in retrofitted industrial process refrigeration. See the discussion on
R-406A under retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(c) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in retrofitted industrial process refrigeration. None
of the components contribute to ozone depletion. However, HFC-125 has a
very high GWP and HFC-134a has a moderate GWP. EPA strongly encourages
recycling and reclamation of this blend in order to reduce its direct
global warming impact. Although HFC-143a is flammable, the blend is
not. Leak testing has demonstrated that its composition never becomes
flammable.
(d) HCFC Blend Epsilon.--HCFC Blend Epsilon, which consists of
HCFC-22, HFC-143a, and HFC-125, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-
11, CFC-12, and R-502 in retrofitted industrial process refrigeration.
Because HCFC-22 contributes to ozone depletion, this blend is
considered a transitional alternative. Regulations regarding recycling
and reclamation issued under section 608 of the Clean Air Act apply to
this blend. HFC-125 and HFC-143a have very high GWPs, and the GWP of
HFC-22 is somewhat high. Although HFC-143a is flammable, the blend is
not. Leak testing has demonstrated that its composition never becomes
flammable.
(3) CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 Industrial Process Refrigeration, New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) HCFC-123.--HCFC-123 is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in new industrial process refrigeration. Because
HCFC-123 contributes to ozone depletion, it is considered a
transitional alternative. Since it poses much lower ozone-depleting
risk than continued use of CFCs, EPA has determined that its use is
acceptable for certain end-uses. In addition, HCFC-123's GWP and
atmospheric lifetime are significantly lower than almost all other
alternatives. HCFC-123 is not flammable. EPA strongly recommends that
users of HCFC-123 adhere to any requirements provided in ASHRAE
Standards 15 and 34. Worker-monitoring studies conducted by EPA
demonstrate that in office building equipment rooms, HCFC-123's 8-hour
time-weighted average concentration can be maintained at or under 1 ppm
(less than the industry-established AEL of 30 ppm), provided that such
standards are followed. HCFC-123 is acceptable for use in commercial
building chillers and should pose no hazard in industrial uses.
(b) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in new industrial process refrigeration. See the
discussion on these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502
industrial process refrigeration.
(4) CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 Industrial Process Refrigeration,
Retrofit and New
This type of refrigeration requires temperatures well below those
achieved with R-502 or HCFC-22. A limited number of substitutes have
been identified that are capable of meeting technical requirements.
These substitutes all contain components with extremely high GWPS, and
EPA is concerned about their potential contribution to global warming.
However, under SNAP, EPA intends to only find those substitutes
unacceptable that clearly present greater overall risk. Given this
framework, EPA finds these high-GWP substitutes acceptable. At the same
time, EPA strongly urges industry to develop new alternatives for this
end-use that do not contain substances with such high GWPs and long
lifetimes.
(a) HFC-23.--HFC-23 is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-
13B1, and R-503 in retrofitted and new industrial process
refrigeration. HFC-23 has an extremely high 100-year GWP of 9000
relative to CO2 and a lifetime of 280 years. Its GWP is the
highest among the HFCs, and its lifetime is exceeded only by the PFCs.
EPA believes HFC-23 could contribute significantly to global warming.
In addition, the long lifetime of HFC-23 means any global warming or
other effects would be essentially irreversible. While the current rule
issued under section 608 of the CAA does not require recycling and
recovery of HFC-23, or leak repair for systems using HFC-23, EPA
strongly encourages users to anticipate future rulemakings with
voluntary compliance. In particular, EPA urges users to reduce leakage
and recover and recycle HFC-23 during equipment servicing and upon the
retirement of equipment. HFC-23 is nonflammable and does not deplete
stratospheric ozone.
(b) R-403B.--R-403B, which consists of HCFC-22, R-218, and propane,
is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 in
retrofitted and new industrial process refrigeration. Because HCFC-22
contributes to ozone depletion, this blend is considered a transitional
alternative. Regulations regarding recycling and reclamation issued
under section 608 of the Clean Air Act apply to this blend. R-218, or
perfluoropropane, is an extremely long-lived substance with an
extremely high GWP. EPA believes this blend could contribute
significantly to global warming. In addition, the long lifetime of R-
218 means any global warming or other effects would be essentially
irreversible. R-403B is only acceptable as a substitute for this end-
use. The GWP of HCFC-22 is also somewhat high. Although propane is
flammable, the blend is not. Leak testing has demonstrated that the
blend's composition never becomes flammable. In a proposed rulemaking
soon to be issued, EPA intends to propose R-403B unacceptable as a
substitute for R-502 in all end-uses because other substitutes have
been identified which do not exhibit such extreme GWPs or lifetimes.
(c) PFC Blend Alpha.--PFC Blend Alpha, which contains HFC-23 and R-
116, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 in
retrofitted and new industrial process refrigeration. Both components
of this blend exhibit extremely high GWPs and long lifetimes. HFC-23
has a GWP of 9,000 and a lifetime of 280 years, and R-116,
perfluoroethane, has a GWP of 9,000 and a lifetime of 10,000 years. EPA
believes this blend could significantly contribute to global warming if
allowed to escape refrigeration systems. In addition, the long
lifetimes of R-116 and HFC-23 mean any global warming or other effects
would be essentially irreversible. While the current rule issued under
section 608 of the CAA does not require recycling and recovery of this
blend, or leak repair for systems using it, EPA strongly encourages
users to anticipate future rulemakings with voluntary compliance. In
particular, EPA urges users to reduce leakage and recover and recycle
this blend during equipment servicing and upon the retirement of
equipment. This blend is nonflammable and does not deplete ozone.
(5) CFC-12 and R-502 Ice Skating Rinks, Retrofit and New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in new and retrofitted ice rinks. See the discussion on these
blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial process
refrigeration.
(6) CFC-12 and R-502 Cold Storage Warehouses, Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in
retrofitted cold storage warehouses. See the discussion on R-406A under
retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted cold storage warehouses. See the discussion on
these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial
process refrigeration.
(c) HCFC Blend Epsilon.--HCFC Blend Epsilon, which consists of
HCFC-22, HFC-143a, and HFC-125, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-
12 and R-502 in retrofitted cold storage warehouses. See the discussion
on HCFC Blend Epsilon under retrofitted industrial process
refrigeration.
(7) CFC-12 and R-502 Cold Storage Warehouses, New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in new cold storage warehouses. See the discussion on these
blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial process
refrigeration.
(8) CFC-12, R-500, and R-502 Refrigerated Transport, Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12, R-500, and R-502
in retrofitted refrigerated transport. See the discussion on R-406A
under retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12, R-
500, and R-502 is retrofitted refrigerated transport. See the
discussion on these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502
industrial process refrigeration.
(c) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12, R-
500, and R-502 in retrofitted refrigerated transport. Because HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124 contribute to ozone depletion, this blend is
considered a transitional alternative. Regulations regarding recycling
and reclamation issued under section 608 of the Clean Air Act apply to
this blend. HCFC-142b has one of the highest ODPs among the HCFCs,
while HCFC-124 has one of the lowest. The GWPs of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b
are somewhat high. Although HCFC-142b is flammable, the blend is not.
Leak testing has demonstrated that its composition never becomes
flammable.
(d) HCFC Blend Epsilon.--HCFC Blend Epsilon, which consists of
HCFC-22, HFC-143a, and HFC-125, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-
12, R-500, and R-502 in retrofitted refrigerated transport. See the
discussion on HCFC Blend Epsilon under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and
R-502 industrial process refrigeration.
(9) CFC-12, R-500, and R-502 Refrigerated Transport, New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12, R-
500, and R-502 in new refrigerated transport. See the discussion on
these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial
process refrigeration.
(10) CFC-12 and R-502 Retail Food Refrigeration, Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in
retrofitted retail food refrigeration. See the discussion on R-406A
under retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted retail food refrigeration. See the discussion on
these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial
process refrigeration.
(c) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted retail food refrigeration. See the discussion on
HCFC Blend Gamma under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502
refrigerated transport.
(d) HCFC Blend Epsilon.--HCFC Blend Epsilon, which consists of
HCFC-22, HFC-143a, and HFC-125, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-
12 and R-502 in retrofitted retail food refrigeration. See the
discussion on HCFC Blend Epsilon under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and
R-502 industrial process refrigeration.
(11) CFC-12 and R-502 Retail Food Refrigeration, New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in new retail food refrigeration. See the discussion on these
blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial process
refrigeration.
(12) CFC-12 and R-502 Commercial Ice Machines, Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in
retrofitted commercial ice machines. See the discussion on R-406A under
retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted commercial ice machines. See the discussion on
these blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial
process refrigeration.
(c) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted commercial ice machines. See the discussion on
HCFC Blend Gamma under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502
refrigerated transport.
(d) HCFC Blend Epsilon.--HCFC Blend Epsilon, which consists of
HCFC-22, HFC-143a, and HFC-125, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-
12 and R-502 in retrofitted commercial ice machines. See the discussion
on HCFC Blend Epsilon under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502
industrial process refrigeration.
(13) CFC-12 and R-502 Commercial Ice Machines, New
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-407A and R-407B.--R-407A and R-407B, which consist of HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-12 and
R-502 in new commercial ice machines. See the discussion on these
blends under retrofitted CFC-11, CFC-12, and R-502 industrial process
refrigeration.
(14) CFC-12 and R-502 Vending Machines, Retrofit
(a) R-404A.--R-404A, which consists of HFC-125, HFC-143a, and HFC-
134a, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in retrofitted
vending machines. None of this blend's constituents contains chlorine,
and thus this blend poses no threat to stratospheric ozone. However,
HFC-125 and HFC-143a have very high GWPs, and the GWP of HFC-134a is
somewhat high. EPA strongly encourages recycling and reclamation of
this blend to reduce its direct global warming impact. Although HFC-
134a is flammable, the blend is not. Leak testing has demonstrated that
its composition never becomes flammable.
(b) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in
retrofitted vending machines. See the discussion on R-406A under
retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(c) R-507.--R-507, which consists of HFC-125 and HFC-143a, is
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in retrofitted vending
machines. None of this blend's constituents contains chlorine, and thus
this blend poses no threat to stratospheric ozone. However, HFC-125 and
HFC-143a have very high GWPs. EPA strongly encourages recycling and
reclamation of this blend in order to reduce its direct global warming
impact. Although HFC-143a is flammable, the blend is not. It is an
azeotrope, so it will not fractionate during operation. Leak testing
has demonstrated that its composition never becomes flammable.
(d) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and
R-502 in retrofitted vending machines. See the discussion on HCFC Blend
Gamma under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502 refrigerated
transport.
(15) CFC-12 Vending Machines, New
(a) R-404A.--R-404A, which consists of HFC-125, HC-143a, and HFC-
134a, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in new vending
machines. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted CFC-12 and
R-502 vending machines.
(b) R-507.--R-507, which consists of HFC-125 and HFC-143a, is
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in new vending
machines. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted CFC-12 and
R-502 vending machines.
(16) CFC-12 Water Coolers, Retrofit
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in retrofitted
water coolers. See the discussion on R-406A under retrofitted R-500
centrifugal chillers.
(b) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in
retrofitted water coolers. See the discussion on HCFC Blend Gamma under
retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502 refrigerated transport.
(17) CFC-12 Household Refrigerators, Retrofit
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in retrofitted
household refrigerators. See the discussion on R-406A under retrofitted
R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in
retrofitted household refrigerators. See the discussion on HCFC Blend
Gamma under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502 refrigerated
transport.
(18) CFC-12 and R-502 Household Freezers, Retrofit
(a) R-402A and R-402B.--R-402A and R-402B, which consist of HCFC-
22, propane, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in retrofitted household freezers. HCFC-22
contributes to ozone depletion, and will be phased out according to the
accelerated schedule (published 12/10/93, 58 FR 65018), although it has
a lower ODP than CFC-12. The GWP of HFC-125 is very high and that of
HCFC-22 is somewhat high. Although these blends contain one flammable
constituent, propane, the blends themselves are not flammable. In
addition, while testing demonstrated that the vapor and liquid
compositions changed during leaks, neither phase became flammable.
(b) R404A.--R-404A, which consists of HFC-125, HFC-143a, and HFC-
134a, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in retrofitted
household freezers. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted
CFC-12 and R-502 vending machines.
(c) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in retrofitted
household freezers. See the discussion on R-406A under retrofitted R-
500 centrifugal chillers.
(d) R-507.--R-507, which consists of HFC-125 and HFC-143a, is
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in retrofitted
household freezers. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted
CFC-12 and R-502 vending machines.
(e) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in
retrofitted household freezers. See the discussion on HCFC Blend Gamma
under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502 refrigerated transport.
(19) CFC-12 and R-502 Household Freezers, New
(a) R-402A and R-402B.--R-402A and R-402B, which consist of HCFC-
22, propane, and HFC-125, are acceptable as substitutes for CFC-11,
CFC-12, and R-502 in retrofitted household freezers. See the discussion
on R-402A and R-402B under retrofitted household freezers.
(b) R-404A.--R-404A, which consists of HFC-125, HFC-143a, and HFC-
134a, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in new
household freezers. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted
CFC-12 and R-502 vending machines.
(c) R-507.--R-507, which consists of HFC-125 and HFC-143a, is
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-502 in new household
freezers. See the discussion on this blend under retrofitted CFC-12 and
R-502 vending machines.
(20) CFC-12 and R-500 Residential Dehumidifiers, Retrofit
Please note that different temperature regimes may affect the
applicability of substitutes within this end-use.
(a) R-406A.--R-406A, which consists of HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, and
isobutane, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and R-500 in
retrofitted residential dehumidifiers. See the discussion on R-406A
under retrofitted R-500 centrifugal chillers.
(b) HCFC Blend Gamma.--HCFC Blend Gamma, which consists of HCFC-22,
HCFC-142b, and HCFC-124, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 and
R-500 in retrofitted residential dehumidifiers. See the discussion on
HCFC Blend Gamma under retrofitted CFC-12, R-500, and CFC-502
refrigerated transport.
(21) CFC-12 Automobile Air Conditioners, Retrofit and New
A smooth transition to the use of substitutes strongly depends on
the continued purity of the recycled CFC-12 supply. The existence of
several substitutes in this end-use may increase the likelihood of
significant cross-contamination. To address this increased risk, EPA is
proposing several use conditions on the use of all motor vehicle air
conditioning refrigerants. Please refer to the notice of proposed
rulemaking, soon to be issued, for more information.
(22) CFC-12 Non-Automobile Motor Vehicle Air Conditioners, Retrofit and
New
(a) HCFC-22.--HCFC-22 is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12 in
retrofitted and new CFC-12 Non-Automobile Motor Vehicle Air
Conditioners. In some situations, HCFC-22 may be used as a retrofit
refrigerant in bus and rail car air conditioning systems originally
designed to use CFC-12. In addition, while HCFC-22 is the primary
refrigerant in these uses, EPA is listing it as an acceptable
substitute for CFC-12 in new systems in order to remove confusion about
its usefulness. Please note that HCFC-22 is only acceptable in motor
vehicles other than automobiles. Design differences render HCFC-22
ineffective in cars. In fact, HCFC-22 may damage automobile air
conditioners. HCFC-22 does contribute to ozone depletion and will
therefore be phased out according to the accelerated schedule
(published 12/10/93, 58 FR 65018). It is therefore covered by
regulations issued under section 608 of the CAA. HCFC-22 is
nonflammable.
(23) Non-mechanical Heat Transfer, Retrofit and New
EPA did not review substitutes for this end-use as part of the SNAP
FRM, nor did it propose to include this end-use in the refrigeration
and air conditioning sector in the NPRM (58 FR 28094). However, the
Agency has developed a better understanding of the volumes likely to be
used as coolants, and this new information has led EPA to reconsider
its earlier position that heat transfer systems constitute small uses.
Therefore, EPA has included this end-use within the refrigeration and
air conditioning sector. In a subsequent proposal, EPA plans to propose
narrowed use limits for several substitutes in this end-use.
(24) CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 Very Low Temperature Refrigeration,
Retrofit and New
This type of refrigeration requires temperatures well below those
achieved with R-502 or HCFC-22. Because these systems are used for
purposes such as freezing blood or for simulating extreme conditions
for testing, extremely low leakage rakes are essential. A limited
number of substitutes have been identified that are capable of meeting
technical requirements. These substitutes all contain components with
extremely high GWPS, and EPA is concerned about their potential
contribution to global warming. However, under SNAP, EPA intends to
only find those substitutes unacceptable that clearly present greater
overall risk. Given this framework, EPA finds these high-GWP
substitutes acceptable. At the same time, EPA strongly urges industry
to develop new alternatives for this end-use that do not contain
substances with such high GWPs and long lifetimes.
(a) HFC-23.--HFC-23 is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-
13B1, and R-503 in retrofitted and new very low temperature
refrigeration. HFC-23 has an extremely high GWP of 9000 and a lifetime
of 280 years. Its GWP is the highest among the HFCs, and its lifetime
is exceeded only by the PFCs. EPA believes it could contribute
significantly to global warming. In addition, the long lifetime of HFC-
23 means any global warming or other effects would be essentially
irreversible. While the current rule issued under section 608 of the
CAA does not require recycling and recovery of HFC-23, or leak repair
for systems using HFC-23, EPA strongly encourages users to anticipate
future rulemakings with voluntary compliance. In particular, EPA urges
users to reduce leakage and recover and recycle HFC-23 during equipment
servicing and upon the retirement of equipment. HFC-23 is nonflammable
and does not deplete ozone.
(b) R-403B.--R-403B, which consists of HCFC-22, R-218, and propane,
is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 in
retrofitted and new very low temperature refrigeration. Because HCFC-22
contributes to ozone depletion, this blend is considered a transitional
alternative. Regulations regarding recycling and reclamation issued
under section 608 of the Clean Air Act apply to this blend. R-218, or
perfluoropropane, is an extremely long-lived substance with an
extremely high GWP. EPA believes this blend could significantly
contribute to global warming. In addition, the long lifetimes of R-218
means global warming and other effects would be essentially
irreversible. R-403B is only acceptable as a substitute for the
refrigerants listed above. The GWP of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b are also
somewhat high. Although propane is flammable, the blend is not. Leak
testing has demonstrated that the blend's composition never becomes
flammable. In a proposed rulemaking soon to be issued, EPA intends to
propose R-403B unacceptable as a substitute for R-502 in all end-uses
because other substitutes have been identified which do not exhibit
such extreme GEPs or lifetimes.
(c) PFC Blend Alpha.--PFC Blend Alpha, which contains HFC-23 and R-
116, is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 in
retrofitted and new very low temperature refrigeration. Both components
of this blend exhibit extremely high GWPs and long lifetimes. HFC-23
has a GWP of 9,000 and a lifetime of 280 years, and R-116,
perfluoroethane, has a GWP of 9,000 and a lifetime of 10,000 years. EPA
believes this blend could significantly contribute to global warming if
allowed to escape refrigeration systems. In addition, the long
lifetimes of R-116 and HFC-23 mean any global warming or other effects
would be essentially irreversible. While the current rule issued under
section 608 of the CAA does not require recycling and recovery of this
blend, or leak repair for systems using it, EPA strongly encourages
users to anticipate future rulemakings with voluntary compliance. In
particular, EPA urges users to reduce leakage and recover and recycle
HFC-23 during equipment servicing and upon the retirement of equipment.
This blend is nonflammable and does not deplete ozone.

B. Foams

1. Clarification from March 18, 1994 Final Rulemaking
In Section IX.E. Foams, under the listing decisions for rigid
polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminate boardstock (59 FR 13085),
the narrative under substitute (e) HCFC-22/HCFC-141b incorrectly reads
as follows: ``The HCFC-22/HCFC-142b blend is acceptable as a substitute
for CFC-11 in rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminate
boardstock foams.'' This sentence should read HCFC-22/HCFC-141b. The
Agency regrets any confusion this error may have caused.
Further, the end-use titled ``Phenolic Insulation Board'' requires
clarification. In this end-use the Agency includes foam products
manufactured from both the discontinuous block (or bun) process and the
continuous lamination process. Henceforth, this end-use will be
referred to as ``Phenolic Insulation Boardstock and Bunstock Foam.''
2. New Listing Decisions
a. Acceptable Substitutes
(1) Rigid Polyurethane and Polyisocyanurate Laminated Boardstock
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. This proprietary
manufacturing process, developed by the U.S. Navy, transforms organic
casting resins into electrosettable foaming compounds. These compounds
are made electrically semiconductive with the addition of electrically
polarizable particles, and if necessary, an electrically conductive
fluid. This process enables foam manufacturers to electrically
accelerate the speed at which they set (i.e., harden) and cure (i.e.
solidify). Other characteristics such as density, compressibility,
adhesion, and shear strength can also be electrically controlled.
Potential health and environmental risks for this technology are
considered similar to or less than those of other acceptable
substitutes for this end-use. Risk is expected to vary based on the
quantity of electrically polarizable particles added in the polymer and
whether other electrically conductive fluids are added to the
formulation. Of the six potential electrically foaming agents reviewed
by the Agency, none represented a significant risk under the SNAP
criteria for evaluation. Adequate workplace precautions such as
workplace ventilation were presumed. For additional detail see, ``SNAP
Evaluation for Electroset Technology.''
(2) Rigid Polyurethane Appliance
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(3) Rigid Polyurethane Spray and Commercial Refrigeration, and Sandwich
Panels
(a) Electroset Technology.--
The Electroset Manufacturing Technology is an acceptable substitute
for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminated
boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(4) Rigid Polyurethane Slabstock and other Foams
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(5) Polystyrene Extruded Boardstock and Billet
(a) HFC-143a.--HFC-143a is acceptable as an alternative to CFC-12
in polystyrene boardstock and billet foams. HFC-143a has a higher
global warming potential (GWP) than other acceptable substitutes for
this end-use.
(b) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(6) Phenolic Insulation Boardstock and Bunstock Foam
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(7) Polyurethane Flexible
(a) Saturated Light Hydrocarbons C3-C6.--Saturated light
hydrocarbons C3-C6 (and blends thereof) are acceptable as substitutes
for CFC-11 and methyl chloroform in polyurethane flexible foam.
Saturated light hydrocarbons C3-C6 offer the potential of a non-ozone-
depleting flexible foam. Saturated light hydrocarbons C3-C6 offer the
potential of a non-ozone-depleting alternative to the use of CFC-11
blowing agents in polyurethane flexible foams. Plant modifications,
however, may be necessary to accommodate the flammability of
hydrocarbons. Saturated light hydrocarbons C3-C6 are VOCs and are
subject to control as such under Title I of the Clean Air Act.
(b) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(8) Polyurethane Integral Skin
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(9) Polystyrene Extruded Sheet
(a) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.
(10) Polyolefin Foam
(a) Methylene Chloride.--Methylene chloride is acceptable as a
substitute for CFC-11, CFC-12 and CFC-14 in polyolefin foams. Methylene
chloride is a non-ozone-depleting and non-global warming alternative
blowing agent. Nevertheless, it does pose potential health and safety
concerns. In addition to occupational and worker safety standards, some
local and regional restrictions apply to the use of methylene chloride.
To assess risks in the Polyolefin foam sector, EPA used data collected
by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for the
proposed revision of the permissible exposure level (PEL) for methylene
chloride. The Agency's estimate for total population risk for methylene
chloride was based on average plant emissions derived from OSHA's
analysis, and while not negligible, was within the range of existing
Agency decisions on acceptable risk. For further detail, refer to the
SNAP background document entitled, ``Risk Screen on the Use of
Methylene Chloride in Polyolefin Foams for Class I Ozone-Depleting
Substances: Foams, June, 1994.'' Users of this substitute should note
that methylene chloride will be subject to future controls for
hazardous air pollutants under Title III section 112 of the Clean Air
Act.
(b) Polyolefin Chemical Blend A.--
Polyolefin Chemical Blend A is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11,
CFC-12 and CFC-114 in polyolefin foams. Polyolefin Chemical Blend A is
a proprietary combination of blowing agents submitted by a polyolefin
foam manufacturer.
(c) HFC-152a/Saturated Light Hydrocarbons C3-C6 Blends.--HFC-152a/
Saturated Light Hydrocarbons C3-C6 blends are acceptable substitutes
for CFC-11, CFC-12 and CFC-114 in polyolefin foams. Both HFC-152a and
saturated light hydrocarbons C3-C6 are flammable. Plant modifications
may be necessary to accommodate this characteristic. Saturated light
hydrocarbons C3-C6 are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are
subject to control as such under Title I of the Clean Air Act.
(d) Electroset Technology.--The Electroset Manufacturing Technology
is an acceptable substitute for CFC-11 blown rigid polyurethane and
polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock foams. See discussion above.

C. Solvent Cleaning

1. New Listing Decisions
a. Acceptable Substitutes
(1) Metals Cleaning
(a) Trans-1,2-dichloroethlyene.--Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene is
acceptable as an alternative to MCF and CFC-113 in metals cleaning.
(b) Volatile Methyl Siloxanes.--Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxanes and
decamethylcyclopentasiloxanes are acceptable alternatives to MCF and
CFC-113 in metal cleaning. Evaluation of other VMS's is ongoing.
(2) Electronics Cleaning
(a) Trans-1,2-dichloroethlyene.--Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene is
acceptable is acceptable as an alternate to MCF and CFC-113 in
electronics cold cleaning.
(b) Volatile Methyl Siloxanes.--Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxanes and
decamthylcyclopentasiloxanes are acceptable alternatives to MCF and
CFC-113 in electronics cleaning. Evaluation of other VMS's is ongoing.
(3) Precision Cleaning
(a) Trans-1,2-dichloroethlyene.--Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene is
acceptable as an alternative to MCF and CFC-113 in precision cleaning.
(b) HCFC-123.--HCFC-123 is an acceptable substitute for CFC-113 and
MCF in precision cleaning. New toxicity data has led to an upward
revision of the company set workplace exposure limit (AEL) of 30 ppm.
The Agency believes that under normal conditions of use this limit is
attainable.
(c) Volatile Methyl Siloxanes.--Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxanes and
decamethylcyclo pentasiloxanes are acceptable alternatives to MCF and
CFC-113 in precision cleaning. Evaluation of other VMS's is ongoing.

D. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection

1. Weight and Volume Equivalence of Halon Substitutes
In the SNAP Rulemaking published March 18, 1994 (59 FR 13043), EPA
included weight and volume equivalence data in the discussion of halon
substitutes. This data was derived from either of two sources. EPA used
manufacturer data when available, otherwise the data was taken from the
background document entitled ``Characterization of Risk from the Use of
Substitutes for Class I Ozone-Depleting Substances: Fire Extinguishing
and Explosion Protection (Halon Substitutes).'' While this data was
presented in the Rulemaking for informational purposes only to
establish a relative concept, the variability of methodologies for
calculating these values has generated some confusion in the regulated
and user community. Therefore, at EPA's request, the Technical
Committee of the Halon Alternatives Research Corporation has developed
an agreed upon set of data for determining weight and volume
equivalence of halon substitutes.
The following table presents weight and volume equivalents for
certain halon substitutes when compared to Halon 1301. The equivalents
were calculated using a single, fuel-specific design concentration
(heptane); therefore, they do not represent the exact weight or volume
of the agent needed to protect any specific space against any specific
hazard. The information used to calculate the equivalents was obtained
from agent manufacturers and NFPA 2001, ``Standard on Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishing Systems.'' Equivalents are included for general
comparison and informational purposes only.
Fire suppression agents must be evaluated in the context of the
fire extinguishing system equipment with which they are used. Design
concentration, and weight and volume equivalents are only meaningful
when evaluated in specific system hardware configurations. This is
especially important when comparing storage volume where storage
container fill density varies with the equipment used. Agent fire
suppression performance will vary with the system used and the detailed
design of the system. Therefore, fire suppression agent manufacturers
do not generally recommend design concentration as these are also a
function of the system hardware in which they are used. Hence, these
data are provided for general guidance only and do not reflect a
recommendation for system design or a basis for rigorous quantitative
comparison.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
lb/1000
Design ft\3\ @ 70 lb agent lb ft\3\/ Maximum Storage
Agent Concentration deg.Fper Halon agentft\3\/ fill pressure\9\
(% Vol.) NFPA 1301\6\ 1301\7\ density (lb/ (psi)
2001\5\ ft\3\)\8\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Halon 1301...................... \4\5 20.6 1.0 1.0 70 360
HFC-23.......................... \1\16 34.8 1.7 2.2 54 609
HFC-125......................... \1\10.9 38.7 1.9 2.3 58 166
HCFC-124........................ \1\\2\8.5 33.8 1.6 1.6 71 195
IG-541.......................... \1\\2\37.5 42.0 2.0 \10\10.5 \9\N/A 2175
FC-3-1-10....................... \1\\2\6 39.3 1.9 1.7 80 360
HCFC Blend A.................... \3\8.6 22.6 1.1 1.4 56 360
HFC-227ea....................... \1\\2\7 34.1 1.7 1.6 72 360
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\Based on 120 percent of cup burner value for n-heptane.
\2\Based on 120 percent of cup burner verified by listing/approval tests.
\3\Based on listing/approval tests, cup burner value approx. 10 percent.
\4\Minimum design concentration per NFPA 12A, cup burner value approx. 3 percent.
\5\Design concentration per NFPA 2001.
\6\Ratio of value in Column 3 to value in Column 3 for Halon 1301 (weight equivalents).
\7\Based on ratio in Column 4 to ratio of maximum fill density relative to Halon 1301 (storage volume
equivalents).
\8\Per NFPA 2001, NFPA 12A (for Halon 1301).
\9\Approx. storage density of 13.3 lb/ft\3\ @2175 psi.
\10\Based on approx. storage density of IG-541 @2175 psi.

Weight and volume equivalencies based on cup burner data are much
less meaningful for streaming agents than for total flood agents. One
needs to consider performance of the agents and equipment in larger-
scale standardized tests.
2. Use of CFCs and HCFCs in Portable Extinguishers
In this notice, EPA is clarifying the relationship between CAAA
section 610 and section 612 regulations. Under section 610(b) (58 FR
4768; January 15, 1993), CFCs are banned from sale or distribution in
all portable fire extinguishers. Under section 610(d) (58 FR 69637,
December 30, 1993), HCFCs in pressurized dispensers are banned from
sale or distribution. However, section 619(d) excludes HCFCs which are
part of an installed `system,' and therefore exempted total flooding
systems and those streaming applications which incorporate fixed,
automatic systems (58 FR 69646). Further, section 610(d) only allows
the sale of a portable fire extinguisher containing HCFCs where other
agents are not suitable for the intended applications. Suitability
includes the commercial availability of the agent and the ability of
the agent to suppress a fire in progress without damaging the equipment
requiring protection (58 FR 69648). Because alternatives are available
for residential consumer uses, section 610(d) banned the sale and use
of HCFCs in portable fire extinguishers for residential consumer
applications. However, in commercial (including industrial and
military) settings, the variety of hazards are too broad to make a
standard rulemaking, and therefore under section 610(d) EPA has
established industry-based mechanisms for controlling the sale of HCFCs
to commercial users and owners of watercraft and aircraft. Because
section 610(d) already bans CFCs in portable fire extinguishers and
HCFCs in residential applications, it is not necessary for them to be
listed as unacceptable under SNAP.
The HCFCs and HCFC Blends that are listed as acceptable under SNAP,
but that are not acceptable under section 610(d) in residential
streaming applications are: HCFC-123, HCFC-124, [HCFC Blend] B, [HCFC
Blend] C, and [HCFC Blend] D.
3. New Listing Decisions
a. Acceptable Substitutes
(1) Streaming Agents
(a) HCFC-124.--HCFC-124 is acceptable as a Halon 1211 substitute.
HCFC-124 has an ODP of 0.02, a 100-year GWP of 440 and an atmospheric
lifetime of 7 years. Its extinguishment concentration, based on cup
burner tests, is 7.0 per cent, while its cardiotoxic level (LOAEL) is
2.5 per cent in the dog, with no effect (NOAEL) apparent at 1.0 per
cent.
Actual exposures were assessed using personal monitoring devices,
and the Agency concludes that likely exposure levels from its use as a
streaming agent do not exceed safe levels when used in a well
ventilated area. The manufacturer of portable extinguishers using these
agents should include cautionary language on the label indicating the
need for ventilation.
This agent is subject to regulations under section 610(d) of the
CAA, which stipulates that HCFCs may only be used in portable fire
extinguishers where other commercially available agents are not as
effective for the fire hazard. Under section 610(d), HCFCs may not be
used in residential extinguishers.
(b) [HCFC Blend] C.--[HCFC Blend] C is acceptable as a Halon 1211
substitute. This agent is a proprietary blend of HCFC-123, HCFC-124,
HCFC-134a, and an additive. The cardiotoxic LOAEL and NOAEL for HCFC-
123 is, respectively, 2.0 per cent and 1.0 per cent; the LOAEL and
NOAEL for HCFC-124 is 2.5 per cent and 1.0 per cent; and the LOAEL and
NOAEL for HCFC-134a is 8.0 per cent and 4.0 per cent respectively.
While the manufacturer may, in the future, conduct personal monitoring
studies of actual exposure levels of this agent, previous studies
conducted for pure HCFC-123 and for pure HCFC-124 have shown that
exposure in the breathing zone does not exceed cardiotoxicity values.
The ODP of both HCFC-123 and HCFC-124 is 0.02 while HCFC-134a has
no ODP since it contains no chlorine. The respective GWP values for
HCFC-123, HCFC-124, and HCFC-134a are 90, 440, and 1200, relative to
CO2, while their respective atmospheric lifetimes are 2 years, 7
years and 16 years.
This agent is subject to regulations under section 610(d) of the
CAA, which stipulates that HCFCs may only be used in portable fire
extinguishers where other commercially available agents are not as
effective for the fire hazard. Under section 610(d), HCFCs may not be
used in residential extinguishers.
(c) [HCFC Blend] D.--[HCFC Blend] D is acceptable as a Halon 1211
substitute. This blend is comprised of HCFC-123 plus a proprietary
additive, and is intended for large outdoor uses such as wheeled
extinguishers, HCFC-123 is currently listed as acceptable for use in
non-residential streaming applications. This agent is subject to
regulations under section 610(d) of the CAA, which stipulates that
HCFCs may only be used in portable fire extinguishers where other
commercially available agents are not as effective for the fire hazard.
Under section 610(d), HCFCs may not be used in residential
extinguishers.
(d) Gelled Halocarbon/Dry Chemical Suspension (formerly Powdered
Aerosol B).--Gelled Halocarbon/Dry Chemical Suspension is acceptable as
a Halon 1211 substitute. This class of agents is comprised of a variety
of blends developed for particular markets. Each blend contains one or
more halocarbons, a dry chemical, and a gel which keeps the powder and
gas uniform. Both the halocarbon and the dry chemical act on the fire,
while the gel is consumed by the fire.
EPA's acceptability listing is extended to any blend comprised of a
halocarbon with a cardiotoxic LOAEL of at least 2.0 per cent, in
combination with a dry chemical or multipurpose dry chemical that is
currently widely used, including monoammonium phosphate (ABC powder),
potassium bicarbonate (Purple K powder), and sodium bicarbonate. This
listing decision also includes ammonium polyphosphate.
The manufacturer of this technology proposes using several
different halocarbons singly and in blends, in combination with one of
several dry chemicals or multipurpose dry chemical powders. The
halocarbons included in the SNAP submission include HFC-227ea, HFC-125,
HFC-134a, and HFC-125 blended with HFC-134a. The cardiotoxic LOAEL and
NOAEL of HFC-227ea is, respectively, 10.5 per cent of 9.0 per cent; the
LOAEL and NOAEL of HFC-125 is 10.0 per cent and 7.5 per cent; and the
LOAEL and NOAEL of HFC-134a is 8.0 per cent and 4.0 per cent
respectively. Previous personal monitoring tests of streaming agents
using pure HCFC-123 (LOAEL 2.0 per cent; NOAEL 1.0 per cent) and HCFC-
124 (LOAEL 2.5 per cent; NOAEL 1.0 per cent) indicate that actual
exposure to the breathing zone does not exceed these values. Such tests
with agents which pose greater risk of cardiosensitization indicate
that HFC-227ea, HFC-125 and HFC-134a can also be used safely in well-
ventilated areas. In addition, the quantity of the halocarbons in this
technology is approximately half of what a pure halocarbon extinguisher
would contain and thus there is a built-in margin of safety as it
relates to cardiotoxicity.
While all of the proposed halocarbons have no ODP, the GWP and
atmospheric lifetime of HFC-227ea is 2050 and 31 years; of HCF-125 is
3400 and 41 years; and of HCF-134a is 1200 and 16 years.
The dry chemical powders proposed by the manufacturer include
ammonium polyphosphate, monoammonium phosphate (MAP), potassium
bicarbonate, and sodium bicarbonate. Sodium bicarbonate was among the
original dry chemical extinguishers, followed by potassium bicarbonate
and monoammonium phosphate which were developed in the 1960s. Thus,
these dry chemical agents have been in use for decades. These powders
have been considered generally nontoxic, although if not used according
to manufacturers directions they can cause temporary breathing
difficulty during and immediately after discharge. Discharge in large
quantities may decrease visibility. These powders typically have
particle sizes of less than 10 microns up to 75 microns, with most
being optimized at 20 to 25 microns. Ammonium polyphosphate has
previously been used as a fire retardant additive to products and
coatings, and the manufacturer is introducing it for use as a streaming
agent.
Monoammonium phosphate, commonly known as ABC powder, is a general
purpose agent which can be used for class A, B and C fires. However, it
is corrosive on hard surfaces. Potassium bicarbonate (Purple K) and
sodium bicarbonate cannot be used on class A fires, but are used for
specific class B and C applications, generally in the commercial
sector. Ammonium polyphosphate is most suitable for military uses,
because it is not corrosive.
An initial assessment of inhalation toxicology of fine particulates
indicates that some risk is posed when the particles are below a
certain size compared to the mass per cubic meter in air. Particle
sizes less than 10 to 15 microns and a mass above the ACGIH nuisance
dust levels raise concerns which need to be further studied should
these agents be used in a total flooding application. However, in a
streaming application, it is unlikely that the exposure level will
exceed ACGIH dust levels.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological
Exposure Indices, Fifth Edition, 1986. American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The particle size distribution for these powders was analyzed with
a Micromeretics Sedigraph using Sedisperse A-11 as the settling medium.
Mesh of various sizes ranging from 40 mesh (420 microns) to 325 mesh
(45 microns) is used to filter the powders into a pan, thus leaving a
`pan fraction' of powder particles which are smaller than 45 microns. A
sample of the sediment in the pan is mixed in the Sedisperse medium,
which is a heavy, high viscosity fluid. An X-ray beam shines through
the sample and counts the particles as they drift down.
Using this method, 50 to 75 per cent of the monoammonium phosphate
is smaller than 45 microns. Of that portion which is smaller than 45
microns, the median particle size is 20 microns, with 19.5 per cent of
the particles being smaller than 10 microns, and 3.0 per cent being
smaller than five microns. Thus, up to 15 per cent (.75 x .195) of the
entire MAP product is smaller than 10 microns.
Seventy-four to 88 per cent of the potassium bicarbonate is smaller
than 45 microns, with a median size of the pan fraction being 17.4
microns. With 28.4 per cent of the pan fraction being ten microns in
size, then up to 25 per cent (.284 x 88) of the total potassium
bicarbonate product is under ten microns. 11.3 per cent of the pan
fraction is under five microns.
Seventy-five to ninety per cent of the sodium bicarbonate is
retained in the pan, and therefore is smaller than 45 microns. The
median particle size of the pan fraction is 15.0 microns. With 12.2 per
cent of the pan fraction being smaller than ten microns, then 11 per
cent of the total product is smaller than ten microns. One per cent of
the pan fraction is smaller than five microns.
The manufacturer's data indicate that there are two mixtures of
ammonium polyphosphate. The P40 mixture has a particle size
distribution with 50% of the particles less than 10 microns. The
intended market for this agent is military applications. The P30
mixture has a distribution with 20% of particles less than 10 microns
and 50% less than 30 microns. The intended market for this agent is for
use in domestic and industrial kitchens.

E. Sterilants

1. EtO/CO2 Systems
In the March 18, 1994 Final Rulemaking, EPA described ethylene
oxide/carbon dioxide (EtO)/CO2) substitutes for use in medical
sterilization. Recently, the Agency has become aware of more
information concerning the design and use of EtO/CO2 systems,
which is described in this Notice.
EtO/CO2 is stored in tanks as a liquified compressed gas
mixture. A tube in the tank draws the liquid mixture from the bottom
for use as a sterilant. By Department of Transportation (DOT)
regulations, the tank can be filled with liquid to only 60 per cent of
its capacity. The remaining 40 per cent capacity above the liquid is
called the ``headspace.''
Liquified compressed gases will vaporize into the headspace of a
tank until equilibrium is reached. Each gas in a mixture vaporizes at
its own specific rate. In EtO/CO2 systems, the CO2 vaporizes
much more readily than does the EtO. The CO2 vaporizes to fill the
headspace, and virtually all the EtO remains in the liquid mixture.
The starting liquid/compressed gas mixture is 8.5 per cent EtO and
91.5 per cent CO2. When a tank is filled, some CO2 vaporizes
to fill the headspace. Because the liquid mixture loses some CO2
to form this vapor, the percentage of EtO in the mixture is now greater
than 8.5 per cent. As liquid leaves the tank, the headspace increases.
More CO2 continues to vaporize into the headspace and the
percentage of EtO in the remaining liquid mixture continues to
increase. This results in a liquid mixture that grows increasingly EtO-
rich until the liquid is fully depleted. At a certain point during
depletion, the percentage of EtO in the liquid mixture increases to a
point where the mixture may become flammable.
Once the liquid mixture is fully depleted, only the CO2-rich
vapor phase remains in the tank. If the depletion is not noted, the
sterilizer could attempt a sterilization cycle using the CO2-rich
vapor. Under these conditions, the vapor will not sterilize
effectively.
Two methods of supply control effectively address these problems.
The first uses one-tank-per-cycle ``unit dose'' tanks. The second uses
larger, multiple-cycle tanks and a weight-sensing system.
Unit dose tanks hold only enough EtO/CO2 for a single
sterilization cycle. Unit dose tanks are available for several sizes of
sterilizer chambers. After a cycle, the depleted tank is replaced with
a fresh one. Using all of the gas in one discharge avoids the risks of
flammability and ineffective sterilization which occur in multiple-
cycle tanks. However, replacing the tank after each cycle is
inconvenient. It also increases the risk of accidental exposure.
A weight-sensing system uses the tank for more than one
sterilization cycle. To be safe, such a system must sense when a tank
is depleted, before either the liquid mixture becomes flammable or when
only ineffective vapors remain in the tank headspace.
For many gas mixtures, a pressure gauge can indicate the amount of
gas in a tank. But for EtO/CO2 systems, tank pressure does not
change appreciably during tank depletion. As the liquid is depleted,
more CO2 fills the headspace and keeps the pressure almost
constant. But as a tank of EtO/CO2 is depleted, the weight of the
liquid mixture decreases steadily.
A weight-sensing system monitors the weight of a tank as it is
depleted. Before the increasingly EtO-rich liquid in the tank becomes
flammable, the system switches to a fresh tank. The depleted tank can
then be replaced.
Such systems are designed with numerous safety features to prevent
accidental exposure. One drawback is that, when depleted, a tank still
contains a portion of the original EtO/CO2 charge. If more EtO/
CO2 were removed, the liquid mixture would approach the point of
flammability.
2. New Listing Decisions
a. Acceptable
(1) [HCFC Blend] A
[HCFC] Blend A is acceptable as a medical sterilant substitute for
12/88 CFC-12/EtO. This is the second agent listed under SNAP that can
serve as a virtual drop-in replacement for 12/88, enabling users to
transition away from CFC-12 without replacing their existing equipment.
Under Title III of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, the Agency
is required to regulate any of the 189 hazardous air pollutants (HAPs).
Ethylene oxide is a HAP, and the user is alerted to follow all upcoming
regulations concerning the use of ethylene oxide, whether used alone or
in a blend. Manufacturers and users are alerted to the fact that the
Agency has issued a Proposed Rulemaking which includes EtO used in all
sterilizers except hospital systems (59 FR 10591, March 7, 1994).
This agent has been registered under FIFRA.

F. Aerosols

1. New Listing Decisions
A. Acceptable Substitutes
(1) Aerosol Solvent
a. Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene.--Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene is
acceptable as a solvent substitute for CFC-113 and MCF in aerosols.

IV. Substitutes Pending Review

The Agency describes submissions as pending if data are incomplete
or for which the 90-day review period is underway and EPA has not yet
reached a final decision. For submissions that are incomplete, the
Agency will contact the submitter to determine a schedule for providing
the missing information if the Agency needs to extend the 90-day review
period. EPA will use its authority under section 114 of the Clean Air
Act to gather this information, if necessary. Any delay of the review
period does not affect a date of publication. This notice can also be
retrieved electronically from EPA's Technology Transfer Network (TTN),
Clean Air Act Amendment Bulletin Board. If you have a 1200 or 2400 bps
modem, dial (919) 541-5742. If you have a 9600 bps modem, dial (919)
541-1447. For assistance in accessing this service, call (919) 541-
5384.

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82

Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

Dated: August 9, 1994.
Mary D. Nichols,
Assistant Administrator.
Note: The following appendix will not appear in the Code of
Federal Regulations.

Appendix A: Summary of Acceptable and Pending Decisions

Refrigerants.--Acceptable Substitutes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R-500 Centrifugal Chillers R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
(Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-500 Centrifugal Chillers R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
(New Equipment/NIKs). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-11, CFC-12, R-502 HCFC-123.................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Industrial Process containment and recovery
Refrigeration (Retrofit). regulations covering HCFCs.
R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Epsilon.......... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-11, CFC-12, R-502, HCFC-123.................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Industrial process containment and recovery
Refrigeration (New Equipment/ regulations covering HCFCs.
NIKs).
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-13, R-13B1, R-503 HFC-23...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Industrial Process containment and reclamation of
Refrigeration (Retrofit and this substitute.
New Equipment/NIKs.
R-403B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
PFC Blend Alpha............. Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-502 Ice Skating R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Rinks (Retrofit and New). containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-502 Cold Storage R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Warehouses (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Epsilon.......... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-502 Cold Storage R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Warehouses (New Equipment/ containment and reclamation of
NIKs). this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-500, R-502 R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Refrigerated Transport containment and recovery
(Retrofit). regulations covering HCFCs.
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Epsilon.......... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-500 Refrigerated R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Transport (New Equipment/ containment and reclamation of
NIKs). this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-502 Retail Food R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Refrigeration (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Epsilon.......... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-502 Retail Food R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Refrigeration (New Equipment/ containment and reclamation of
NIKs). this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-502 Commercial Ice R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Machines (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Epsilon.......... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-502 Commercial Ice R-407A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Machines (New Equipment/ containment and reclamation of
NIKs). this substitute.
R-407B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12 Vending Machines R-404A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
(Retrofit). containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-507....................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12 Vending Machines (New R-404A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Equipment/NIKs). containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-507....................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12 Water Coolers R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
(Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12 Household R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Refrigerators (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-502 Household R-402A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Freezers (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-402B...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-404A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-507....................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12, R-502 Household R-402A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Freezers (New Equipment/ containment and recovery
NIKs). regulations covering HCFCs.
R-402B...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
R-404A...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
R-507....................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
CFC-12, R-500 Residential R-406A...................... Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
Dehumidifiers (Retrofit). containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
HCFC Blend Gamma............ Acceptable..... This substitute is subject to
containment and recovery
regulations covering HCFCs.
CFC-12 Non-Automobile Motor HCFC-22..................... Acceptable..... HCFC-22 may damage automobile air
Vehicle Air Conditioners conditioning systems, which is
(Retrofit and New). why it is only acceptable for non-
automotive use. This substitute
is subject to containment and
recovery regulations covering
HCFCs.
CFC-13, R-13B1, and R-503 HFC-23...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
Very Low Temperature containment and reclamation of
Refrigeration (Retrofit and this substitute.
New Equipment/NIKs.
R-403B...................... Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
PFC Blend Alpha............. Acceptable..... EPA strongly recommends the
containment and reclamation of
this substitute.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Refrigerants.--Pending Decisions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Application Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CFC-12 Motor Vehicle HCFC Blend Delta....... EPA has requested
Air Conditioning. additional data.
HCFC-22 Heat Pumps..... HFC-134a............... EPA has not yet
evaluated Class II
substitutes.
HFC-152a............... EPA has not yet
evaluated Class II
substitutes.
HFC-32................. EPA has not yet
evaluated Class II
substitutes.
R-407A/R-407B.......... EPA has not yet
evaluated Class II
substitutes.
HCFC-22 Conventional HFC-125/HFC-134a/HFC-32 EPA has not yet
(Household) Air evaluated Class II
Conditioning. substitutes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Foam Sector.--Acceptable Substitutes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CFC-11 Rigid Polyurethane and Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Polyisocyanurate Laminated
Boardstock.
CFC-11 Polyurethane, Rigid Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Appliance.
CFC-11 Polyurethane, Rigid Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Commercial.
CFC-11 Polyurethane, Rigid Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Slabstock and Other.
CFC-12 Polystyrene, Extruded HFC-143a.................... Acceptable..... HFC-143a has the highest GWP of
Boardstock and Billet. those substitutes acceptable for
this end-use.
Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
CFC-11 CFC-113 Phenolic, Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Insulation Board.
CFC-11 Polyurethane, Flexible Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Saturated Light Hydrocarbons Acceptable..... Flammability may be an issue for
C3-C6. the manufacture and transport of
products. Hydrocarbons are VOCs
and are subject to control under
Title I of the Clean Air Act.
CFC-11 Polyurethane, Integral Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
Skin.
CFC-12 Polystyrene, Extruded Saturated Light Hydrocarbons Acceptable..... Flammability may be an issue for
Sheet. C3-C6. the manufacture and transport of
products. Hydrocarbons are VOCs
and are subject to control under
Title I of the Clean Air Act.
Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
CFC-12, CFC-114, CFC-11 Methylene Chloride.......... Acceptable..... Revised OSHA PELs have been
Polyolefin. proposed at 25 ppm (TWA) for
methylene chloride (11/7/91).
Subject to meeting all future
ambient air controls for
hazardous air pollutants under
Title III section 112, of the
1990 CAA Amendments. RCRA
standards must be met.
HFC-152a/Saturated Light Acceptable..... Flammability may be an issue for
Hydrocarbons. the manufacture and transport of
products. Major sources of VOC
emissions are subject to the New
Source Review (NSR) program.
Chemical Blend A............ Acceptable..... Proprietary blend.
Electroset Technology....... Acceptable..... Proprietary technology.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solvents.--Acceptable Substitutes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metals Cleaning With CFC-113, Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene.. Acceptable.
MCF.
Volatile Methyl Siloxanes... Acceptable..... Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxanes and
decamethylcyclopentasiloxanes are
acceptable alternatives.
Evaluation of other VMS's is
ongoing.
Electronics Cleaning With CFC- Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene.. Acceptable.
113, MCF.
Volatile Methyl Siloxanes... Acceptable..... Octamethyl cyclotetras iloxanes
and decamethy lcyclopentas
iloxanes are acceptable
alternatives. Evaluation of other
VMS's is ongoing.
Precision Cleaning With CFC- Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene.. Acceptable.
113, MCF.
HCFC-123.................... Acceptable..... New toxicity data has led to an
upward revision of the company
set workplace exposure limit
(AEL) of 30 ppm. The Agency
believes that under normal
conditions of use, this limit is
acceptable.
Volatile Methyl Siloxanes... Acceptable..... Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxanes and
decamethylcyclopentasiloxanes are
acceptable alternatives.
Evaluation of other VMS's is
ongoing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Foams.--Pending Substitutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CFC-11, CFC-113 Rigid Vacuum panels.......... Agency has not
Polyurethane, completed review of
Applicance Foams. data.
Polyurethane, Rigid.... HFC-356................ Insufficient data.
Also need information
on proposed end-
use(s).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solvent Cleaning.--Pending Substitutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Precision Cleaning w/ Chlorobromomethane..... Agency has not
CFR-113, MCF. completed review of
data.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection.--Acceptable Substitutes: Streaming Agents
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Application Substitute Decision Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Halon 1211 Streaming Agents.. HCFC-124.................... Acceptable..... This agent is banned in
residential applications per
section 610(d) of the CAAA.
[HCFC Blend] C.............. Acceptable..... This agent is banned in
residential applications per
section 610(d) of the CAAA.
[HCFC Blend] D.............. Acceptable..... The intended market for this agent
is Large, outdoor applications.
This agent is banned in
residential applications per
section 610(d) of the CAAA.
Gelled Halocarbon/Dry Acceptable..... This agent was formerly
Chemical Suspension. indentified as Powdered Aerosol
B.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection.--Pending Substitutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Halon 1211 Streaming HFC-227ea.............. Complete SNAP
agents. submission and
personal monitoring
data required.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Halon 1301............. [HFC Blend] A.......... Agency analysis of
this agent is not yet
complete.
Total flooding agents.. [Inert Gas Blend] B.... Pending receipt of
medical assessment by
peer review panel.
[Inert Gas Blend] C.... Pending receipt of
medical assessment by
peer review panel.
[Powdered Aerosol] A... For use in occupied
areas, pending
medical assessment by
peer review panel.
[Water Mist System] A.. Pending receipt of
medical assessment by
peer review panel.
[Water Mist System] B.. Pending receipt of
medical assessment by
peer review panel.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sterilants.--Acceptable
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Conditions Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12/88 Blend of EtO/ [HCFC Blend] A...... Acceptable.......... This agent has received ...................
CFC-12 Sterilant. FIFRA registration.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sterilants.--Pending
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12/88 Blend of EtO/CFC- HFC-125................ Pending FIFRA
12. registration and
completion of Agency
review.
Sterilant.............. HFC-227ea.............. Pending FIFRA
registration and
receipt of complete
SNAP submission.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aerosols.--Acceptable Substitutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CFC-11, CFC-113, MCF, Trans-1,2-
HCFC-141b as aerosol dichloroethylene. .
solvents.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aerosols.--Pending
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CFC-11, CFC-113, MCF, Monochlorotoluene/benzo Agency has not
HCFC-141b as aerosol trifluorides. completed review.
solvents. Data submission
pending.
CFC-12 as aerosol HFC-4310mee............ Agency has not
propellant. completed review of
this data.
Premanufacture Notice
review under the
Toxic Substances
Control Act not yet
completed.
Perfluorocarbons Agency has not
(C6F14) and completed review.
Perfluoropolyethers. Data submission
pending.
HFC-227................ FDA approval still
required in metered
dose inhalers.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Adhesives, Coatings and Inks.--Pending Substitutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Comments
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metals cleaning w/CFC- Monochloro-toluene/ Agency has not
113, MCF. benzo-trifluorides. completed review of
data. Evaluation of
exposure and toxicity
data still ongoing.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 94-20802 Filed 8-25-94; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P-M