1,3-Dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane

The production of 1,3-dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane and use as a cleaning agent replacement for CFC-113 may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 286 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 1,3-dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. When released in air, it is subject to degradation in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 4.9 years.[6][7]

1,3-Dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane is manufactured in industry by the addition of Dichlorofluoromethane to Tetrafluoroethylene.[8] In 2016, production in the United States accounted to 11,339 Kilograms. 1,3-Dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane is fairly inert under most normal conditions, however if heated to extreme temperatures it may react with metals. When reacted with strong bases, toxic gases can be released. [9]

1,3-Dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane, known in the aerospace industry as AK-225G, has been used by NASA and the United States Department of Defense to clean oxygen breathing systems. Prior to 1996, NASA and the DoD had selected CFC-113 (1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane) as the solvent of choice because it was effective, less toxic, and compatible with most materials used within construction, and not reactive with oxygen. Since the enforcement of the montreal protocol in 1996 HCFC-225 was selected as an interim replacement for cleaning large scale propulsion oxygen systems at NASA. [10]

Use as a cleaning solvent for parts often involves involves flushing, vapour degreasing, and hand wiping the components. Some components may be cleaned with water based cleaners, but these are then flushed and verified clean with HFCF-225. NASA has made efforts to recapture, distill, and re-use HCFC-225 where it is feasible. However, many users within the aerospace industry still rely on stockpiled CFC-113. In 2002, the DoD permitted DuPont Ikon® P (perfluorobutyl iodide) solution for use where HCFC-225 is now banned, however, DuPont has since discontinued Ikon® P and both the aerospace industry and Department of Defense are still readily searching for alternatives.[11][12]

• F-Gases