[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 190 (Friday, October 1, 2004)]
[Notices]
[Pages 58903-58910]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-21928]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

[OAR-2003-0118; FRL-7822-1]


Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Notice 19 for Significant New 
Alternatives Policy Program

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency.

ACTION: Notice of acceptability.

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SUMMARY: This Notice of Acceptability expands the list of acceptable 
substitutes for ozone-depleting substances (ODS) under the U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives 
Policy (SNAP) program. The substitutes are for use in the following 
sectors: Refrigeration and air conditioning, foam blowing, fire 
suppression and explosion protection, and sterilants. This document 
also clarifies the status of the use of a hydrochlorofluorocarbon as an 
aerosol solvent, revises the global warming potential for a substitute 
previously listed as acceptable for use in fire suppression and 
explosion protection based on new information, and clarifies a 
statement from the previous SNAP notice of acceptability of August 21, 
2003, regarding a refrigerant.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2004.

ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID 
No. OAR-2003-0118 (continuation of Air Docket A-91-42). All electronic 
documents in the docket are listed in

[[Page 58904]]

the EDOCKET index at http://www.epa.gov/edocket. Although listed in the 
index, some information is not publicly available, i.e., CBI or other 
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Publicly 
available docket materials are available either electronically in 
EDOCKET or in hard copy at the EPA Air Docket (No. A-91-42), EPA/DC, 
EPA West, Room B102, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The 
Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through 
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Public 
Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number for the Air 
Docket is (202) 566-1742.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Margaret Sheppard by telephone at 
(202) 343-9163, by facsimile at (202) 343-2338, by e-mail at 
[email protected], or by mail at U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency, Mail Code 6205J, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20460. Overnight or courier deliveries should be sent to the office 
location at 1310 L Street, NW., 8th floor, Washington, DC 20005.
    For more information on the Agency's process for administering the 
SNAP program or criteria for evaluation of substitutes, refer to the 
original SNAP rulemaking published in the Federal Register on March 18, 
1994 (59 FR 13044). Notices and rulemakings under the SNAP program, as 
well as other EPA publications on protection of stratospheric ozone, 
are available from EPA's Ozone Depletion World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/ including the SNAP portion at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes
    A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
    B. Foam Blowing
    C. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
    D. Sterilants
II. Clarification of Status of HCFC-142b in Aerosols under SNAP
III. Revised Global Warming Potential of C6-Perfluoroketone Based on 
New Data
IV. Clarification for RS-44
V. Section 612 Program
    A. Statutory Requirements
    B. Regulatory History
Appendix A--Summary of Acceptable Substitutes
Appendix B--New Information Available

I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes

    This section presents EPA's most recent acceptable listing 
decisions for substitutes in the following industrial sectors: 
Refrigeration and air conditioning, foam blowing, fire suppression and 
explosion protection, and sterilants. For copies of the full list of 
SNAP decisions in all industrial sectors, visit EPA's Ozone Depletion 
Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html.
    The sections below discuss each substitute listing in detail. 
Appendix A contains a table summarizing today's listing decisions for 
new substitutes. The statements in the ``Further Information'' column 
in the table provide additional information, but are not legally 
binding under section 612 of the Clean Air Act. In addition, the 
``Further Information'' may not be a comprehensive list of other legal 
obligations you may need to meet when using the substitute. Although 
you are not required to follow recommendations in the ``Further 
Information'' column of the table to use a substitute, EPA strongly 
encourages you to apply the information when using these substitutes. 
In many instances, the information simply refers to standard operating 
practices in existing industry and/or building-code standards. Thus, 
many of these statements, if adopted, would not require significant 
changes to existing operating practices.
    Submissions to EPA for the use of the substitutes listed in this 
document may be found under category VI-D of EPA air docket A-91-42 at 
the address described above under ADDRESSES. You can find other 
materials supporting the decisions in this action under category IX-B 
of EPA docket A-91-42 and in e-docket OAR-2003-0118 at http://www.epa.gov/edocket/.

A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

1. ISCEON 79
    EPA's decision: ISCEON 79 [R-125/134a/600a (85.1/11.5/3.4)] is 
acceptable for use in new and retrofit equipment as a substitute for R-
502, HCFC-22, and other HCFC blends including but not limited to R-
401A, R-401B, R-402A, R-402B, R-406A, R-408A, R-409A, R-411A, R-411B, 
R-411C, R-414A, R-414B and R-416A in:
     Industrial process refrigeration;
     Retail food refrigeration;
     Cold storage warehouses;
     Refrigerated transport;
     Commercial ice machines;
     Ice skating rinks;
     Household refrigerators and freezers.
    ISCEON 79 is a blend of 85.1% by weight HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane, 
Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number (CAS ID 354-33-6), 
11.5% by weight HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, CAS ID 
811-97-2), and 3.4% by weight HC-600a (isobutane, 2-methyl-
propane, CAS ID 75-28-5). You may find the submission under 
EPA Air Docket A-91-42, item VI-D-302 (or see e-docket OAR-2003-0118).
    Environmental information: The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 
ISCEON 79 is zero. The Global Warming Potentials (GWPs) of HFC-125 and 
HFC-134a are 3450 and 1320, respectively (relative to carbon dioxide, 
using a 100-year time horizon (United Nations Environment Programme 
(UNEP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Scientific 
Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2002).) The atmospheric lifetimes of 
these constituents are 29 and 14.0 years, respectively.
    HFC-125 and HFC-134a are excluded from the definition of volatile 
organic compound (VOC) under Clean Air Act regulations addressing the 
development of State implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain 
the national ambient air quality standards. 40 CFR 51.100(s).
    Flammability information: While isobutane is flammable, the blend 
as formulated and under worst case fractionated formulation scenarios 
is not flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: HFC-125 and HFC-134a have 8 hour/day, 
40 hour/week workplace environmental exposure limits (WEELs) of 1000 
ppm established by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). 
Isobutane has a 10 hour/day, 40 hour/week recommended exposure limit 
(REL) established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and 
Health (NIOSH) of 800 ppm. EPA expects users to follow all 
recommendations specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for 
the blend and the individual components and other safety precautions 
common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also 
expect that users of ISCEON 79 will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs and the 
ACGIH's TLV and other specified exposure limits.
    Comparison to other refrigerants: ISCEON 79 is not an ozone 
depleter; thus, it poses a lower risk for ozone depletion than R-502, a 
blend of HCFC-22 and CFC-115; HCFC-22; and HCFC blends, the ODSs ISCEON 
79 replaces. ISCEON 79 has a comparable or lower GWP than most other 
common substitutes for R-502, HCFC-22, and HCFC blends. Flammability 
and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that 
ISCEON 79 is acceptable because there are no other substitutes that are 
currently or potentially available and that provide a substantially 
lower risk to public health

[[Page 58905]]

and the environment in the end uses listed.
2. R-420A
    EPA's decision: R-420A is acceptable for use in new and retrofit 
equipment as a substitute for R-500 and CFC-12 in:
     Retail food refrigeration;
     Cold storage warehouses;
     Commercial ice machines;
     Ice skating rinks;
     Water coolers;
     Vending machines;
     Residential dehumidifiers;
     Industrial process refrigeration;
     Industrial process air conditioning;
     Reciprocating chillers;
     Screw chillers;
     Centrifugal chillers;
     Household refrigerators and freezers.
    R-420A is a blend of 88% by weight HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane, CAS ID 811-97-2), and 12% by weight HCFC-
142b (1-chloro-1,1-difluoroethane, CAS ID 75-68-3). A common 
trade name for this refrigerant blend is Choice refrigerant. You may 
find the submission under EPA Air Docket A-91-42, item VI-D-302 (or see 
e-docket OAR-2003-0118).
    Environmental information: The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 
HCFC-142b is 0.065 and HFC-134a has an ODP of zero. The GWPs of HCFC-
142b and HFC-134a are 2400 and 1320, respectively (relative to carbon 
dioxide, using a 100-year time horizon (United Nations Environment 
Programme (UNEP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Scientific 
Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2002).) The atmospheric lifetimes of 
these constituents are 17.9 and 14.0 years, respectively.
    Because R-420A contains an ODS, regulations on its use apply, 
including the requirements for technician certification, mandatory 
recovery of refrigerant during service of equipment containing R-420A, 
a requirement that sales of the refrigerants be made only to EPA-
certified technicians, and the statutory prohibition under section 
608(c) of the Clean Air Act against knowingly venting refrigerants. 
Production of HCFC-142b will be subject to further control beginning in 
2010, so blends containing HCFC-142b such as R-420A are only 
transitional substitutes.
    HCFC-142b and HFC-134a are excluded from the definition of volatile 
organic compound (VOC) under Clean Air Act regulations addressing the 
development of SIPs to attain and maintain the national ambient air 
quality standards. 40 CFR 51.100(s).
    Flammability information: Although HCFC-142b is moderately 
flammable, the blend is not flammable as formulated or under worst case 
fractionated formulation scenarios.
    Toxicity and exposure data: HCFC-142b and HFC-134a have 8 hour/day, 
40 hour/week WEELs of 1000 ppm established by the AIHA. EPA expects 
users to follow all recommendations specified in the MSDS for the blend 
and the individual components and other safety precautions common in 
the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also expect that 
users of R-420A will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs.
    Comparison to other refrigerants: R-420A has a lower ODP than the 
Class I ODSs it replaces, CFC-12 or R-500, a blend containing CFC-12. 
R-420A has a comparable GWP to that of most other substitutes for R-500 
and CFC-12. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed 
above. Thus, we find that R-420A is acceptable as a substitute for 
Class I ODS in the end uses listed.
3. HFC-134a
    EPA's decision: HFC-134a is acceptable for use in new and retrofit 
equipment as a substitute for HCFC-22 in motor vehicle air conditioning 
for buses and passenger trains.
    HFC-134a is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS ID 
811-97-2).
    Environmental information: See the decision above in section 
I.A.1for ISCEON 79 for environmental information about HFC-134a.
    Toxicity and exposure data: See the decision above in section I.A.1 
for ISCEON 79 for toxicity and exposure data about HFC-134a.
    Flammability information: HFC-134a is non-flammable.
    Comparison to other refrigerants: HFC-134a has no ozone depletion 
potential and thus, poses a lower risk in ozone depletion then HCFC-22, 
the ODS it replaces. HFC-134a has a comparable or lower GWP than HCFC-
22 and blends previously found acceptable as a substitute for HCFC-22 
in bus air conditioning. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as 
discussed above. Therefore, we find HFC-134a acceptable in motor 
vehicle air conditioning for buses and passenger trains.
4. R-407C
    EPA's decision: R-407C is acceptable for use in new and retrofit 
equipment as a substitute for HCFC-22 in motor vehicle air conditioning 
for buses and passenger trains.
    R-407C is a blend of 23% by weight HFC-32 (difluoromethane, CAS ID 
75-10-5), 25% by weight HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane, CAS ID 
354-33-6) and 52% by weight HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane, CAS ID 811-97-2).
    EPA previously listed R-407C as an acceptable alternative for HCFC-
22 and CFCs (February 8, 1996; 61 FR 4736), for HCFC blends (December 
20, 2002; 67 FR 77927), and for R-502 (August 21, 2003; 68 FR 50533) in 
various end uses for refrigeration and air conditioning.
    Environmental information: The ODP of R-407C is zero. The GWPs of 
HFC-125, HFC-32 and HFC-134a are 3450, 543, and 1320, respectively 
(relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100-year time horizon). HFC-32 is 
the only component of this blend that is a VOC under Clean Air Act 
regulations.
    Flammability information: While HFC-32 is moderately flammable, the 
blend is not flammable as formulated or under worst case fractionated 
formulation scenarios.
    Toxicity and exposure data: All components of the blend have WEELs 
of 1000 ppm established by the AIHA. EPA expects users to follow all 
recommendations specified in the MSDS for the blend and the individual 
components and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and 
air conditioning industry. We also expect that users of R-407C will 
adhere to the AIHA's WEELs.
    Comparison to other refrigerants: R-407C is not an ozone depleter; 
thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion compared to HCFC-22 and 
blends containing HCFCs. R-407C has a comparable or lower GWP than that 
for HCFC-22 and blends previously found acceptable as a substitute for 
HCFC-22 in bus air conditioners. Flammability and toxicity risks are 
low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that R-407C is acceptable 
because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in 
motor vehicle air conditioning in buses and passenger trains.
5. R-410A
    EPA's decision: R-410A is acceptable for use in new equipment as a 
substitute for HCFC-22 in motor vehicle air conditioning for buses and 
passenger trains.
    R-410A is a blend of 50% by weight HFC-32 (difluoromethane) and 50% 
by weight HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane). Due to the high operating 
pressures typical of R-410A systems, this blend is acceptable only in 
new equipment and not in retrofit equipment.
    EPA previously listed R-410A as an acceptable alternative for HCFC-
22 and CFCs (February 8, 1996; 61 FR 4736) and for HCFC blends 
(December 20, 2002; 67 FR 77927) in various end uses for refrigeration 
and air conditioning.

[[Page 58906]]

    Environmental information: The ODP of R-410A is zero. For 
environmental information about HFC-125, see section I.A.1 above for 
ISCEON 79; for environmental information about HFC-32, see section 
I.A.5 above for R-407C.
    Flammability information: While HFC-32 is moderately flammable, the 
blend is not flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: For toxicity and exposure data on HFC-
125 and HFC-32, see section I.A.5 above for R-407C. We expect that 
users of R-410A will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs.
    Comparison to other refrigerants: R-410A is not an ozone depleter; 
thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion compared to HCFC-22 and 
blends previously found acceptable as a substitute for HCFC-22 in bus 
air conditioners. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed 
above. Thus, we find that R-410A is acceptable because it reduces 
overall risk to public health and the environment in motor vehicle air 
conditioning in buses and passenger trains.

B. Foam Blowing

1. EcomateTM
    EPA's decision: EcomateTM is acceptable as a substitute 
for CFCs and HCFCs in polyurethane spray foam.
    This decision corresponds with the SNAP decision published in 
Notice 18, August 21, 2003 (68 FR 50533) for other foam blowing end-
uses.
    The submitter, Foam Supplies, claims that the composition of 
EcomateTM is confidential business information (see docket 
A-91-42, item VI-D-296 or see e-docket OAR-2003-0118).
    Environmental information: EcomateTM has no ODP and very 
low or zero global warming potential (GWP). Users should be aware that 
EcomateTM is not excluded from the definition of volatile 
organic compound (VOC) under Clean Air Act regulations addressing the 
development of State implemention plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain 
the national ambient air quality standards. 40 CFR 51.100(s). For more 
information refer to the manufacturer of EcomateTM, EPA 
regulations, and your state or local air quality agency. Also, because 
EcomateTM is considered hazardous, spills and disposal 
should be handled in accordance with requirements of the Resource 
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
    Flammability information: EcomateTM is flammable and 
should be handled with proper precautions. Use of EcomateTM 
will require safe handling and shipping as prescribed by the 
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Department 
of Transportation (for example, using personal safety equipment and 
following requirements for shipping hazardous materials at 49 CFR parts 
170 through 173). However, when blended with fire retardant, the 
flammability of EcomateTM can be reduced to make a 
formulation that is either combustible or non-flammable (refer to the 
manufacturer of EcomateTM for more information). The 
manufacturer of EcomateTM has prepared for safety training 
for use of this flammable blowing agent in spray foam (see docket A-91-
42, item VI-D-307 or e-docket OAR-2003-0118).
    Toxicity and exposure data: EcomateTM should be handled 
with proper precautions. EPA anticipates that EcomateTM will 
be used consistent with the recommendations specified in the 
manufacturers' Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs). OSHA established a 
permissible exposure limit for the main component of 
EcomateTM of 100 ppm for a time-weighted average over an 
eight-hour work shift.
    Comparison to other foam blowing agents: EcomateTM is 
not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk overall compared to the 
ODS it replaces. EcomateTM has a comparable or lower GWP 
than the other substitutes for CFCs and HCFCs in these end uses. 
Although EcomateTM is flammable, we find that the 
manufacturer's recommended precautions for safety are sufficient so 
that the risks will not be significantly higher than for other 
available or potentially available substitutes in this end use. Meeting 
federal exposure requirements allows EcomateTM to be used 
with no greater risk of toxicity than for other available or 
potentially available substitutes in this end use. Thus, we find that 
EcomateTM is acceptable because there are no other 
substitutes that are currently or potentially available and that 
provide a substantially lower risk to public health and the environment 
in polyurethane spray foam.

C. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection

1. HFC-227ea With 0.15% d-Limonene (NAF S 227)
    EPA's decision: NAF S 227 is acceptable for use as a substitute for 
halon 1301 in the total flooding end use in both normally occupied and 
unoccupied spaces.
    NAF S 227 is a mixture of HFC-227ea, also known as 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-
heptafluoropropane, (CAS ID 431-89-0), and 0.15% d-limonene, 
also known as 4-isopropenyl-1-methycyclohexene (CAS ID 5989-
27-5), by weight. You may find the submission under Docket A-91-42, 
item VI-D-305 (or see e-docket OAR-2003-0118).
    EPA's decision is that NAF S 227 is acceptable for use as a 
substitute for halon 1301 in the total flooding end use in both 
normally occupied and unoccupied spaces. EPA finds the blend acceptable 
as submitted; however, blends containing more than 0.15% d-limonene are 
not addressed by today's decision. EPA previously found HFC-227ea 
acceptable in total flooding (January 29, 2002; 67 FR 4185). This 
decision is similar to the SNAP decision published in Notice 18, August 
21, 2003 (68 FR 50533) concerning HFC-125 with 0.15% d-limonene (NAF S 
125).
    Environmental information: Both of the components of NAF S 227 have 
an ozone depletion potential of zero. HFC-227ea has a global warming 
potential (GWP) of 3660 and d-limonene has a GWP of 10. These values 
are lower than the GWP of halon 1301 (6900).
    HFC-227ea is currently defined as a VOC, although EPA has proposed 
that it be excluded from the definition of volatile organic compound 
(VOC) under Clean Air Act regulations addressing the development of 
State implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the national 
ambient air quality standards (September 3, 2003; 68 FR 52373). 40 CFR 
51.100(s). d-limonene is a VOC.
    Flammability: Although d-limonene is flammable, the blend is non-
flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: As with other fire suppressants, EPA 
recommends that you minimize exposure to this agent. If personnel are 
exposed to the agent, they should exit the area within five minutes or 
less. EPA recommends that unnecessary exposure to fire suppression 
agents and their decomposition products be avoided and that personnel 
exposure be limited to no more than 5 minutes. This minimizes the risk 
of effects on the heart (irregular heartbeats) from HFC-227ea and other 
halocarbons.
    In order to keep exposure levels as low as possible, EPA recommends 
the following for establishments installing and maintaining total 
flooding systems:
    --Put adequate ventilation in place. If ventilation is suspected to 
be inadequate, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) should be 
available;
    --Wear proper personal protection equipment (impervious butyl 
gloves, eye protection, chemical resistant aprons, long sleeves, and 
safety shoes);
    --Clean up all spills immediately in accordance with good 
industrial hygiene practices; and
    --Provide training for safe handling procedures to all employees 
that would be likely to handle the containers of

[[Page 58907]]

NAF S 227 or extinguishing units filled with the material.
    Use of this agent should conform with relevant Occupational Safety 
and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, including 29 CFR part 
1910, subpart L, Sec.  1910.160 for fixed fire extinguishing systems, 
Sec.  1910.162 for gaseous agents and Sec.  1910.165 for predischarge 
employee alarms. Per OSHA requirements, protective gear (SCBA) should 
be available in the event that personnel reenter the area. In addition, 
users should also observe the guidelines in the latest edition of the 
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2001 Standard on Clean 
Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems for use of HFC-227ea.
    Comparison to other fire suppressants: NAF S 227 has no ODP; thus, 
it reduces risk overall compared to halon 1301, the ODS it replaces. 
EPA has already found acceptable HFC-227ea, the main ingredient in NAF 
S 227. The components of NAF S 227 have a GWP comparable with or lower 
than that of many other acceptable substitutes for halon 1301. Thus, we 
find that NAF S 227 is acceptable because it does not present a greater 
risk to public health and the environment in the end use listed than 
other substitutes that are available.

D. Sterilants

1.-3. IoGasTM Sterilant Blends 1, 3, and 6
    EPA's decision: IoGasTM 1 Sterilant, IoGasTM 
3 Sterilant, and IoGasTM 6 Sterilant are acceptable as 
substitutes for CFC-12, HCFC-22, HCFC-124, and blends thereof in 
ethylene oxide blends for sterilization. The IoGasTM 
Sterilant Blends are all blends of ethylene oxide, carbon dioxide 
(CO2), and trifluoroiodomethane (CF3I). 
CF3I, CAS ID 2314-97-8, is also called FIC-13I1 or 
trifluoromethyl iodide. EPA previously found ethylene oxide alone and 
blends of CO2 and ethylene oxide acceptable as substitutes 
for CFC-12 in blends with ethylene oxide (59 FR 13044, March 18, 1994). 
You may find the submission under EPA Air Docket A-91-42 item VI-D-304 
or see e-docket OAR-2003-0118.
    Environmental information: The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 
CF3I is less than 0.0025, and ethylene oxide and 
CO2 have an ODP of zero. The Global Warming Potentials 
(GWPs) of CF3I and CO2 are less than 1 and 1 
respectively (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100-year time horizon 
(United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and World Meteorological 
Organization (WMO) Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2002).) 
The atmospheric lifetime of CF3I is approximately 0.007 
years.
    CF3I and ethylene oxide are volatile organic compounds 
(VOCs). CO2 is excluded from the definition of VOC under 
Clean Air Act regulations addressing the development of State 
implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the national ambient 
air quality standards. 40 CFR 51.100(s).
    Ethylene oxide is a hazardous air pollutant under section 112 of 
the Clean Air Act. A National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air 
Pollutants applies to commercial sterilization and fumigation 
operations (40 CFR part 63, subpart O).
    Flammability information: Although ethylene oxide is flammable, the 
blends as formulated are not flammable.
    Toxicity and exposure data: Ethylene oxide has a permissible 
exposure limit (PEL) of 1 ppm on an 8-hour time-weighted average from 
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). EPA 
recommends an acceptable exposure limit of 150 ppm on an 8-hour time-
weighted average for CF3I, with an exposure ceiling of no 
more than 2,000 ppm. EPA expects users to follow all recommendations 
specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and 
the individual components and other safety precautions common in the 
medical sterilization industry. We also expect that users of 
IoGasTM Sterilant Blends will adhere to EPA's recommended 
exposure limit.
    Comparison to other sterilants: IoGasTM Sterilant Blends 
1, 3, and 6 have an ODP of less than 0.001; thus, they pose a lower 
risk for ozone depletion than CFC-12, HCFC-22, or HCFC-124, the ODSs 
they replace. IoGasTM Sterilant Blends 1, 3, and 6 have a 
comparable or lower GWP than most other substitutes for CFC-12, HCFC-
22, or HCFC-124. Flammability risks are low, as discussed above. The 
toxicity of the sterilant blends is less than that of ethylene oxide 
alone, which is also an acceptable substitute. Thus, we find 
IoGasTM Sterilant Blends 1, 3, and 6 acceptable because 
there are no other substitutes that are currently or potentially 
available and that provide a substantially lower risk to public health 
and the environment in the end uses listed.

II. Clarification of Status of HCFC-142b in Aerosols under SNAP

    Some individuals have inquired whether HCFC-142b may be sold in 
aerosol products as a substitute for HCFC-141b, particularly as a 
solvent to assist in mold release of plastics. Substitutes for ozone-
depleting substances are required to be submitted to the SNAP program 
for review before they may be sold, with minor exceptions (see 40 CFR 
82.174(a) and 82.176; Clean Air Act section 612(e)). No one has 
submitted information on this substitute in this end use to EPA, and 
therefore, we conclude that HCFC-142b is not currently legal to sell as 
an aerosol solvent as a substitute for HCFC-141b or CFC-113. If any 
manufacturer or distributor is interested in selling such a product, 
they should complete a submission form for review (available at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/submit/index.html).

III. Revised Global Warming Potential of C6-Perfluoroketone Based on 
New Data

    The Environmental Protection Agency published in the Federal 
Register of December 20, 2002 (67 FR 77927), a Notice of Acceptability 
related to the SNAP program. We also published a rule under the SNAP 
program on fire suppressant alternatives to halon on January 27, 2003 
(68 FR 4004). After publication of these documents, EPA received 
updated information related to the calculation of the environmental 
impact of C6-perfluoroketone, also known as FK-5-1-12mmy2, a fire 
suppression substitute that was listed as an acceptable total flooding 
agent in the Notice and as an acceptable streaming agent, subject to 
narrowed use limits, in the rule. Based on this new information, EPA 
published two correction notices in the Federal Register of April 7, 
2003 (68 FR 16728 and 68 FR 16729), listing a GWP for C6-
perfluoroketone of between four and seven, relative to CO2 
over a 100-year time horizon. Since then, new information found in the 
literature was recently made available to EPA. Based on this 
additional, new information, EPA is correcting the GWP listed for C6-
perfluoroketone to between 0.6 and 1.8, relative to CO2 over 
a 100-year time horizon. This range includes both the direct GWP and 
the indirect GWP. The corrected values are also listed in Appendix B of 
this document.
    EPA's evaluation of this new information is available in EPA air 
docket A-2002-08 at the address described above under ADDRESSES. This 
correction does not change EPA's finding of acceptability for use of 
C6-perfluoroketone as a substitute for halon 1301 in total flooding 
fire suppression applications in both normally occupied and unoccupied 
areas or our finding that C6-perfluoroketone is acceptable for use as a 
substitute for halon 1211 as a streaming agent in non-residential 
areas.

[[Page 58908]]

IV. Clarification for RS-44

    EPA published a Notice of Acceptability related to the SNAP Program 
in the Federal Register of August 21, 2003 (68 FR 50533, Notice 18). In 
FR Doc. 03-75472, published on August 21, 2003, a typographical error 
was made inadvertently.
    EPA decided in that notice of acceptability that RS-44, a 
refrigerant, is acceptable for use in new and retrofit equipment as a 
substitute for HCFC-22 in a number of end uses for refrigeration and 
air conditioning. However, on page 50535 in the first column 
immediately after the heading, ``Comparison to other refrigerants,'' 
the document incorrectly stated that RS-44 was a substitute for CFC-12. 
Instead, it is a substitute for HCFC-22, as stated elsewhere in that 
document and in the accompanying table. Therefore, that first sentence 
in the first column on page 50535 should read as follows: ``RS-44 is 
not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion 
compared to HCFC-22, the ODS it replaces.''

V. 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. We 
refer 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, 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 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, it must publish the revised lists within an additional six 
months.
     90-day Notification--Section 612(e) directs 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 rulemaking (59 FR 13044) which 
described the process for administering the SNAP program. In the same 
notice, we issued the first acceptability lists for substitutes in the 
major industrial use sectors. These sectors include:
     Refrigeration and air conditioning;
     Foam blowing;
     Solvents cleaning;
     Fire suppression and explosion protection;
     Sterilants;
     Aerosols;
     Adhesives, coatings and inks; and
     Tobacco expansion.
    These sectors compose the principal industrial sectors that 
historically consumed the largest volumes of ozone-depleting compounds.
    As described in this original 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 
substance. Therefore, by this notice we are adding substances to the 
list of acceptable alternatives without first requesting comment on new 
listings.
    However, we do 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 the lists of prohibited or acceptable substitutes. We 
publish updates to these lists 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, intended for use as a replacement for a class I or class II 
substance. Anyone who produces a substitute must provide EPA 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.
    You can find a complete chronology of SNAP decisions and the 
appropriate Federal Register citations from the SNAP section of EPA's 
Ozone Depletion World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/title6/snap/chron.html. This information is also available from the Air Docket 
(see ADDRESSES section above for contact information).

    Dated: September 23, 2004.
Edward Callahan,
Acting Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs, Office of Air and 
Radiation.

    Note: This appendix will not appear in the Code of Federal 
Regulations.

Appendix A: Summary of Acceptable Decisions

                                       Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              End-use                      Substitute                  Decision             Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Motor vehicle air conditioning for   R-410A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
 buses and passenger trains (new).    for HCFC-22.
Motor vehicle air conditioning for   HFC-134a as a           Acceptable.................  ......................
 buses and passenger trains           substitute for HCF-22.
 (retrofit and new).

[[Page 58909]]

 
                                     R-407C as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for HCFC-22.
Industrial process refrigeration     ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 (retrofit and new).                  substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Industrial process air conditioning  R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
 (retrofit and new).                  for R-500 and CFC-12.
Ice skating rinks (retrofit and      ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 new).                                substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Cold storage warehouses (retrofit    ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 and new).                            substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Refrigerated transport (retrofit     ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 and new).                            substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
Retail food refrigeration (retrofit  ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 and new).                            substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Vending machines (retrofit and new)  R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Water coolers (retrofit and new)...  R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Commercial ice machines (retrofit    ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 and new).                            substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Household refrigerators and          ISCEON 79 as a          Acceptable.................  See note.\1\
 freezers (retrofit and new).         substitute for R-502,
                                      HCFC-22 and HCFC
                                      blends.
                                     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Centrifugal chillers (retrofit and   R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
 new).                                for R-500 and CFC-12.
Reciprocating chillers (retrofit     R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
 and new).                            for R-500 and CFC-12.
Screw chillers (retrofit and new)..  R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      for R-500 and CFC-12.
Residential dehumidifiers (retrofit  R-420A as a substitute  Acceptable.................  ......................
 and new).                            for R-500 and CFC-12.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Note: HCFC blends include, but are not limited to, R-401A, R-401B, R-402A, R-402B, R-406A, R-408A, R-409A, R-
  411A, R-411B, R-411C, R-414A, R-414B, and R-416.


                                                  Foam Blowing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              End-use                      Substitute                  Decision             Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane spray foam......  Ecomate as a            Acceptable.................  Use of the agent
                                      substitute for CFCs                                  should be in
                                      and HCFCs.                                           accordance with the
                                                                                           manufacturers'
                                                                                           Material Safety Data
                                                                                           Sheets (MSDSs).
                                                                                          See note.\1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Note: OSHA established a permissible exposure limit for the main component of EcomateTM of 100 ppm for a
  time-weighted average over an eight-hour work shift.


                                    Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              End-use                      Substitute                  Decision             Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total flooding.....................  NAF S 227 as            Acceptable.................  Use of the agent
                                      substitute for Halon                                 should be in
                                      1301.                                                accordance with the
                                                                                           safety guidelines in
                                                                                           the latest edition of
                                                                                           the NFPA 2001
                                                                                           Standard for Clean
                                                                                           Agent Fire
                                                                                           Extinguishing
                                                                                           Systems.
                                                                                          Extinguisher bottles
                                                                                           should be clearly
                                                                                           labeled with the
                                                                                           potential hazards
                                                                                           associated with the
                                                                                           use of HFC-227ea and
                                                                                           d-limonene, as well
                                                                                           as handling
                                                                                           procedures to reduce
                                                                                           risk resulting from
                                                                                           these hazards.

[[Page 58910]]

 
                                                                                          See additional notes
                                                                                           1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional notes:
1. Should conform with relevant OSHA requirements, including 29 CFR part 1910, subpart L, Sec.  Sec.   1910.160,
  1910.161 (dry chemicals and aerosols) and 1910.162 (gaseous agents).
2. Per OSHA requirements, protective gear (SCBA) should be available in the event personnel should reenter the
  area.
3. Discharge testing should be strictly limited to that which is essential to meet safety or performance
  requirements.
4. The agent should be recovered from the fire protection system in conjunction with testing or servicing, and
  recycled for later use or destroyed.
5. EPA has no intention of duplicating or displacing OSHA coverage related to the use of personal protective
  equipment (e.g., respiratory protection), fire protection, hazard communication, worker training or any other
  occupational safety and health standard with respect to halon substitutes.


                                                   Sterilants
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              End-use                      Substitute                  Decision             Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sterilants.........................  IoGasTM Sterilant       Acceptable.................  ......................
                                      Blends 1, 3, and 6 as
                                      substitutes for CFC-
                                      12, HCFC-22, HCFC-
                                      124, in sterilant
                                      blends with ethylene
                                      oxide.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Note: This appendix will not appear in the Code of Federal 
Regulations.

Appendix B: New Information Available

                Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            End-use                 Substitute     Information available
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total flooding................  C6-                EPA reviewed three
                                 perfluoroketone    additional papers on
                                 (FK-5-1-12mmy2,    C6-perfluoroketone
                                 CAS Reg. No. 756-  photolysis. The new
                                 13-8).             information recently
                                                    made available in
                                                    the literature
                                                    supports revising
                                                    the global warming
                                                    potential of C6-
                                                    perfluoroketone to
                                                    be between 0.6 and
                                                    1.8, relative to CO2
                                                    on a 100-year time
                                                    horizon. See Docket
                                                    A-91-42, item IX-B-
                                                    93 or e-docket OAR-
                                                    2003-0118-0049.
Streaming.....................  C6-                EPA reviewed three
                                 perfluoroketone    additional papers on
                                 (FK-5-1-12mmy2,    C6-perfluoroketone
                                 CAS Reg. No. 756-  photolysis. The new
                                 13-8).             information recently
                                                    made available in
                                                    the literature
                                                    supports revising
                                                    the global warming
                                                    potential of C6-
                                                    perfluoroketone to
                                                    be between 0.6 and
                                                    1.8, relative to CO2
                                                    on a 100-year time
                                                    horizon.
                                                   See Docket A-91-42,
                                                    item IX-B-93 or e-
                                                    docket OAR-2003-0118-
                                                    0049.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 04-21928 Filed 9-30-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P