Arkema has announced that the anticipated start-up of its production plant for low-global-warming-potential (LGWP) refrigerant gas, 1234yf, is in 2016.

The EU Mobile Air Conditioning Directive bans the use of refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential greater than 150 in new type-approved vehicles manufactured as of January 2013 and in all new vehicles sold in Europe as of January, 2017. Studies conducted by the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) have re-confirmed the safe use of 1234yf or 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, effectively reinforcing the EC’s Directive calling for the phase out of the current refrigerant, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane or R-134a.

• Arkema, Colombes, France