- The 1234yf refrigerant plant is expected to start up in 2016.
- The EU Directive bans refrigerants with a GWP over 150 in new vehicles from January 2017.
- SAE studies confirm the safety of 1234yf, supporting the phase-out of R134a.
- Arkema's two-phase strategy includes initial production in Asia and later expansion in Europe.
Project Overview
Arkema is advancing the construction of a 1234yf Low Global Warming Potential (LGWP) refrigerant gas production plant, with an anticipated start-up in 2016. This new facility aims to meet the future needs and regulatory requirements of the global automotive mobile air conditioning industry.
Regulatory Background
The EU Mobile Air Conditioning Directive prohibits the use of refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential greater than 150 in new type-approved vehicles from January 2013 and in all new vehicles sold in Europe from January 2017. Studies by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) have confirmed the safe use of 1234yf, supporting the European Commission's directive to phase out the current refrigerant, R134a.
Strategic Goals
Arkema aims to restore confidence in the automotive sector regarding the availability of 1234yf. The company has taken steps to address regulatory constraints limiting 1234yf's availability and is executing a two-phase strategy based on proprietary technology. The first phase, based in Asia, will supply emerging needs for 1234yf, while the second phase in Europe aims to fully replace R134a after 2017.
