[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 155 (Friday, August 10, 2012)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47768-47779]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-19688]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 82
[EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118; FRL-9712-4]
RIN 2060-AG12
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Determination 27 for
Significant New Alternatives Policy Program
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Determination of Acceptability.
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SUMMARY: This Determination of Acceptability expands the list of
acceptable substitutes for ozone-depleting substances under the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives
Policy (SNAP) program. This action lists as acceptable four additional
substitutes for use in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector;
two additional substitutes in the foam blowing sector; one additional
substitute in the solvent cleaning sector; two additional substitutes
in the aerosol sector; and one additional substitute in the fire
suppression sector.
DATES: This determination is effective on August 10, 2012.
ADDRESSES: EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket ID
No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 (continuation of Air Docket A-91-42). All
electronic documents in the docket are listed in the index at http://www.regulations.gov. Although listed in the index, some information is
not publicly available, i.e., Confidential Business Information (CBI)
or other
[[Page 47769]]
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Publicly
available docket materials are available either electronically at
http://www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the EPA Air Docket (No.
A-91-42), EPA/DC, EPA West, Room 3334, 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 email 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., 10th 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 at EPA's Ozone Depletion Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/strathome.html 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. Solvent Cleaning
D. Aerosols
E. Fire Suppression
II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements and Authority for the SNAP Program
B. EPA's Regulations Implementing Section 612
C. How the Regulations for the SNAP Program Work
D. Additional Information About the SNAP Program
Appendix A--Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes
This action presents EPA's most recent acceptable listing decisions
for substitutes in the refrigeration and air conditioning, foam
blowing, solvent cleaning, aerosols and fire suppression sectors. For
copies of the full list of acceptable substitutes for ozone-depleting
substances (ODSs) in all industrial sectors, visit EPA's Ozone Layer
Protection Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html.
The sections below discuss each substitute listing in detail.
Appendix A contains tables summarizing today's listing decisions for
these new acceptable substitutes. The statements in the ``Further
Information'' column in the tables provide additional information, but
are not legally binding under section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA).
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
consistent with section 612 of the CAA, 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. However, some of
these statements may refer to obligations that are enforceable or
binding under federal or state programs other than the SNAP program.
Many of these recommendations, if adopted, would not require
significant changes to existing operating practices.
You can find submissions to EPA for the use of the substitutes
listed in this document and other materials supporting the decisions in
this action in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at http://www.regulations.gov.
A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
1. C7 Fluoroketone
EPA's decision: EPA finds C7 Fluoroketone acceptable as a
substitute for chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-113 for use in new and retrofit
equipment in non-mechanical heat transfer.
C7 Fluoroketone is marketed under the trade name NovecTM
774 and is also designated as FK-6-1-12. This substitute is a blend of
two isomers, 3-pentanone,1,1,1,2,4,5,5,5-octafluoro-2,4-
bis(trifluoromethyl) (Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number [CAS
Reg. No.] 813-44-5) and 3-hexanone,1,1,1,2,4,4,5,5,6,6,6-undecafluoro-
2-(trifluoromethyl) (CAS Reg. No. 813-45-6). You may find the redacted
submission under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0287 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: C7 Fluoroketone has no ozone depletion
potential (ODP). C7 Fluoroketone has a 100-year integrated (100-yr)
global warming potential (GWP) of about 1.\1\ C7 Fluoroketone is
considered a volatile organic compound (VOC) under Clean Air Act (CAA)
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of state
implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The emissions of this refrigerant will
be limited given it is subject to the venting prohibition under section
608(c)(2) of the CAA and EPA's implementing regulations codified at 40
CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\1\ TSCA SNAP Addendum Form to EPA for C7 Fluoroketone. February
22, 2010.
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Flammability information: C7 Fluoroketone is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include respiratory tract irritation and symptoms may
include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, headache, hoarseness, and
nose and throat pain. Contact with the eyes or skin during product use
is not expected to result in significant irritation. Ingestion of C7
Fluoroketone is not expected to cause health effects, and there is no
anticipated need for first aid if C7 Fluoroketone contacts the eyes or
skin or if C7 Fluoroketone is ingested.
EPA anticipates that C7 Fluoroketone will be used consistent with
the recommendations specified in the manufacturer's material safety
data sheet (MSDS). The manufacturer recommends an acceptable exposure
limit (AEL) for the workplace of 225 ppm over an eight-hour time-
weighted average (8-hr TWA) for C7 Fluoroketone. EPA anticipates that
users will be able to meet the manufacturer's recommended workplace
exposure limit and address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and other safety
precautions common to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other refrigerants: C7 Fluoroketone is not ozone-
depleting, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-ozone-
depleting substitutes for this end use such as hydrofluoroether (HFE)-
7100, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-245fa and CO2 and in contrast
to CFC-113 (with an ODP of 1.0 relative to CFC-11), the ozone-depleting
substance (ODS) which it replaces.\2\ C7 Fluoroketone's GWP of
[[Page 47770]]
about 1 is lower than or comparable to that of other non-ozone-
depleting substitutes in heat transfer uses, such as HFE-7100 with a
GWP of 297, HFC-245fa with a GWP of 1030, and CO2 with a GWP
of 1.\3\ Furthermore, the GWP of C7 Fluoroketone is well below that of
CFC-113, the ODS it is replacing (with a GWP of 6130). Flammability and
toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. The potential health
effects of C7 Fluoroketone are common to many refrigerants, including
many of those already listed as acceptable under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds
C7 Fluoroketone acceptable in the end use listed above because the
overall environmental and human health risk posed by C7 Fluoroketone is
lower than or comparable to the risks posed by other substitutes found
acceptable in the same end use.
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\2\ Unless otherwise stated, all ODPs in this document are from
WMO (World Meteorological Organization), 2011. Scientific Assessment
of Ozone Depletion: 2010, Global Ozone Research and Monitoring
Project--Report No. 52, 516 pp., Geneva, Switzerland, 2011. This
document is accessible at http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/arep/gaw/ozone_2010/ozone_asst_report.html .
\3\ Unless otherwise stated, all GWPs in this document are from:
IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis.
Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of
the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Solomon, S., D. Qin,
M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M.Tignor and H.L.
Miller (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United
Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. This document is accessible at http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/en/contents.html.
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2. Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
1233zd(E))
EPA's decision: EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-11 and hydrochlorofluorocarbon
(HCFC)-123 for use in new equipment in centrifugal chillers.
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene ((E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene, CAS Reg. No. 102687-65-0) is a chlorofluoroalkene
marketed under the trade names SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) and
SolsticeTM N12 Refrigerant for this end use. You may find
the redacted submission under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0285 at
http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has an
ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034.4 5 Estimates of this compound's
potential to deplete the ozone layer found that even with worst-case
estimates of emissions which assume that this compound would substitute
for all compounds it could replace, the impact on global atmospheric
ozone abundance would be statistically insignificant.\6\
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) has a 100-yr GWP reported as 4.7 to 7
and an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 26 to 31 days or
less.7 8 SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is currently
considered a VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s))
addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
The manufacturer has petitioned EPA to exempt SolsticeTM
1233zd(E) from that definition based on its claim that the chemical
exhibits low photochemical reactivity. The emissions of this
refrigerant will be limited given it is subject to the venting
prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA and EPA's implementing
regulations codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\4\ Wang D., Olsen S., Wuebbles D. 2011. ``Preliminary Report:
Analyses of tCFP's Potential Impact on Atmospheric Ozone.''
Department of Atmospheric Sciences. University of Illinois, Urbana,
IL. September 26, 2011.
\5\ Patten and Wuebbles, 2010. ``Atmospheric Lifetimes and Ozone
Depletion Potentials of trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trichloropropylene and
trans-1,2-dichloroethylene in a three-dimensional model.'' Atmos.
Chem. Phys., 10, 10867-10874, 2010.
\6\ Wang et al., 2011. Op. cit.
\7\ Sulbaek Andersen, Nilsson, Neilsen, Johnson, Hurley and
Wallington, ``Atmospheric chemistry of trans-CF3CH=CHCl: Kinetics of
the gas-phase reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and
O3'', Jrnl of Photochemistry and Photobiology A:
Chemistry 199 (2008) 92-97; and Wang D., Olsen S., Wuebbles D.
Undated. ``Three-Dimensional Model Evaluation of the Global Warming
Potentials for tCFP.'' Department of Atmospheric Sciences.
University of Illinois, Urbana, IL. Draft report, undated.
\8\ Wang et al. 2011 and Sulbaek Andersen et al., 2008. Op cit.
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Flammability information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include serious eye irritation, skin irritation, and
frostbite. It may cause central nervous system effects such as
drowsiness and dizziness. The substitute could cause asphyxiation if
air is displaced by vapors in a confined space.
EPA anticipates that SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) will be used
consistent with the recommendations specified in the manufacturer's
MSDS. The manufacturer recommends an AEL of 300 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E). EPA anticipates that users will be
able to meet the manufacturer's recommended workplace exposure limit
and address potential health risks by following requirements and
recommendations in the MSDS and in any other safety precautions common
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other refrigerants: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)
has an ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034. This is roughly one order of
magnitude higher than the ODPs of HFCs used in substitute refrigerants
which are considered to have zero ODP, including HFC-134a and HFC-
125.\9\ SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s ODP is well below that of
CFC-11 and HCFC-123 (with ODPs ranging from 0.01 to 1.0), the ODSs
which it replaces. SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s GWP of 4.7 to 7 is
lower than or comparable to that of other acceptable substitutes in the
same end uses, such as HFC-134a with a GWP of 1430, HFC-245fa with a
GWP of 1030, and ammonia with a GWP of 0. Its GWP is also well below
those of CFC-11 and HCFC-123 (with GWPs ranging from 77 to 4750).
Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. The
potential health effects of SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) are common
to many refrigerants, including many of those already listed as
acceptable under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)) acceptable in the
end use listed above because the overall environmental and human health
risk posed by trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene is lower than or
comparable to the risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in
the same end use.
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\9\ The ODP of HFC-134a was estimated to be less than 1.5 x
10-5 and the ODP of HFC-125 was estimated to be less than
3.0 x 10-5 using a theoretical 2-dimensional model.
Ravishankara, A. R., A. A. Turnipseed, N. R. Jensen, S. Barone, M.
Mills, C. J. Howard, and S. Solomon. 1994. Do hydrofluorocarbons
destroy stratospheric ozone? Science 263: 71-75.
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3. Carbon dioxide (R-744)
EPA's decision: EPA finds carbon dioxide CO2 or R-744)
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-12, HCFC-22 and blends containing
HCFC-22 and/or HCFC-142b, and R-502 \10\ for use in new equipment in
vending machines.
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\10\ R-502 is a refrigerant blend containing 51.2% CFC-115 and
48.8% HCFC-22 by weight.
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Carbon dioxide is also known as CO2, CAS Reg. No. 124-
38-9, or R-744 when used as a refrigerant. We have previously listed
CO2 as a refrigerant in other refrigeration and air
conditioning end uses (e.g., 77 FR 33315, June 6, 2012; 74 FR 50129,
September 30, 2009; 60 FR 3318, January 13, 1995). You may find the
redacted submission under docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0283 at
http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: CO2 has no ODP. The 100-yr
GWP of CO2 is 1.
EPA's regulations codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart F exempt
CO2 refrigerant from the venting prohibition under section
608(c)(2) of the Clean Air Act (see 69 FR 11946; March 12, 2004). This
section and EPA's implementing regulations prohibit the intentional
venting or release of substitutes for class I or class II ODSs during
the repair, maintenance, service or disposal of refrigeration and air
conditioning appliances, unless EPA expressly exempts a particular
substitute refrigerant from the venting prohibition, as we have done
for CO2.
CO2 is excluded from the definition of VOC under Clean
Air Act regulations
[[Page 47771]]
(see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and
maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: CO2 is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute at lower concentrations include loss of concentration,
headache and shortness of breath. The substitute may also irritate the
skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high concentrations,
it may cause central nervous system depression. The substitute could
cause asphyxiation, if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space.
For additional information concerning potential health risks of
CO2, see EPA's final rule under the SNAP program for use of
CO2 as a refrigerant in motor vehicle air conditioning
systems (77 FR 33315, June 6, 2012). Also, EPA has performed an
assessment to examine the health and environmental risks of this
substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
under the name, ``Risk Screen on Substitutes for CFC-12 and R-502 in
Vending Machines Substitute: Carbon Dioxide.'' To protect against these
potential health risks, CO2 has an 8 hour/day, 40 hour/week
permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 5000 ppm in the workplace required
by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and a 15-
minute recommended short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 30,000 ppm
established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH). EPA recommends that users follow all requirements and
recommendations specified in the MSDS, in American Society for Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standard 15, and
other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air
conditioning industry. Based on the Risk Screen analysis described
above, we recommend installing vending machines using CO2 in
well-ventilated spaces and avoiding confined spaces with poor
ventilation. We also recommend that users of CO2 adhere to
NIOSH's STEL and to ASHRAE 15, and we expect that users will meet
OSHA's PEL. EPA anticipates that users will be able to address
potential health risks by following requirements and recommendations in
the MSDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other refrigerants: CO2 is not ozone-
depleting, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-ozone-
depleting substitutes for these end uses, including R-404A, R-407C, R-
410A, and HFC-134a, and in contrast to the ODSs CFC-12, HCFC-22 and R-
502 (with ODPs ranging from 0.04 to 1.0) which it replaces.
CO2s GWP of 1 is lower than or comparable to that of other
non-ozone-depleting substitutes in the same refrigeration and air
conditioning end use for which we are finding it acceptable, such as R-
404A with a GWP of about 3930, R-407C with a GWP of about 1770, R-410A
with a GWP about 2090, and HFC-134a with a GWP about 1430. Furthermore,
the GWP of CO2 is well below those of the ODSs it is
replacing, including CFC-12, HCFC-22 and R-502 (with GWPs ranging from
1810 to 10,900). Flammability risks are low, as discussed above.
Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with industry
standards, recommendations in the MSDS, and other safety precautions
common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. The
potential health effects of CO2 are common to many
refrigerants, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds CO2 acceptable in the end uses
listed above because the overall environment and human health risk
posed by CO2 is lower than or comparable to the risks posed
by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end uses.
4. HFO-1234ze
EPA's decision: EPA finds hydrofluoroolefin \11\ (HFO)-1234ze is
acceptable as a substitute for:
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\11\ Hydrofluoroolefins are a subset of hydrofluorocarbons that
contain double bonds between carbon atoms.
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CFC-12, R-500, HCFC-22 and blends containing HCFC-22 and/
or HCFC-142b for use in new equipment in reciprocating, screw and
scroll chillers
CFC-11 and HCFC-123 for use in new equipment in
centrifugal chillers
HFO-1234ze is also known as HFC-1234ze, HFO-1234ze(E) or trans-
1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 29118-24-9). It is sold
under the trade name SolsticeTM 1234ze. We have previously
listed HFO-1234ze as an acceptable substitute for a number of foam
blowing end uses, as an aerosol propellant, and as a refrigerant for
heat transfer (74 FR 50129, September 30, 2009; 75 FR 34017, June 16,
2010). You may find the submission under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-
0118-0282 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: HFO-1234ze has no ODP. HFO-1234ze has a
100-yr GWP of 6 \12\ and an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 2
weeks. HFO-1234ze is exempted from the definition of VOC under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs
to attain and maintain the NAAQS (June 22, 2012; 77 FR 37610). The
emissions of this refrigerant will be limited given it is subject to
the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA and EPA's
implementing regulations codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\12\ ``Atmospheric chemistry of trans-CF3CH=CHF: products and
mechanisms of hydroxyl radical and chlorine atom initiated
oxidation, M. S. Javadi, R. S[oslash]ndergaard, O.J. Nielsen, M. D.
Hurley, and T.J. Wellington, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics
Discussions 8, 1069-1088, 2008
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Flammability information: HFO-1234ze is non-flammable at standard
temperature and pressure using the standard test method ASTM E681.
However, at higher temperatures it is mildly flammable. It is
classified as a Class 2L (lower flammability, low burning velocity)
refrigerant under the standard ASHRAE 34 (2010).
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute at lower concentrations include headache, nausea, drowsiness
and dizziness. The substitute may also irritate the skin or eyes or
cause frostbite. At sufficiently high concentrations, it may cause
central nervous system depression and affect respiration. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation, if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space.
EPA anticipates that HFO-1234ze will be used consistent with the
recommendations specified in the manufacturer's MSDS. The American
Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) recommends a workplace
environmental exposure limit (WEEL) of 800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFO-
1234ze. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet the workplace
exposure limit (WEEL) and address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and other safety
precautions common to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other refrigerants: HFO-1234ze is not ozone-
depleting, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-ozone-
depleting substitutes for these end uses such as R-407C, HFC-134a and
ammonia, and in contrast to CFC-12, HCFC-22 and R-500 (with ODPs
ranging from 0.04 to 1.0), the ODSs which it replaces. HFO-1234ze's GWP
of about 6 is lower than or comparable to that of other non-ozone-
depleting substitutes in the same refrigeration and air conditioning
end uses for which we are finding it acceptable, such as R-407C with a
GWP about 1770, HFC-134a with a GWP about 1430, and ammonia with a GWP
of zero. HFO-1234e's GWP is well below
[[Page 47772]]
that of the ODSs it replaces, including CFC-12, HCFC-22 and R-500 with
GWPs ranging from 1810 to 10,900. Flammability and toxicity risks are
low, as discussed above. The potential health effects of HFO-1234ze are
common to many refrigerants, including many of those already listed as
acceptable under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds HFO-1234ze acceptable in the end
uses listed above because the overall environmental and human health
risk posed by HFO-1234ze is lower than or comparable to the risks posed
by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end uses.
B. Foam Blowing
1. Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
Liquid Blowing Agent)
EPA's decision: EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
is acceptable as a substitute for CFC-11 and HCFC-141b in:
Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminated
boardstock
Rigid polyurethane appliance
Rigid polyurethane spray, commercial refrigeration and
sandwich panels
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and other
Integral skin polyurethane
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene ((E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene, CAS Reg. No. 102687-65-0) is a chlorofluoroalkene
marketed under the trade names SolsticeTM 1233zd(E),
SolsticeTM Liquid Blowing Agent or SolsticeTM LBA
in these end uses. You may find the redacted submission under Docket
item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0285 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: The environmental information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Environmental information'' section in
listing A.2.
Flammability information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: The toxicity information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Toxicity and exposure data'' section
in listing A.2.
EPA anticipates that SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) will be used
consistent with the recommendations specified in the manufacturer's
MSDS. The manufacturer recommends an AEL of 300 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E). EPA anticipates that users will be
able to meet the manufacturer's recommended workplace exposure limit
and address potential health risks by following requirements and
recommendations in the MSDS and in other safety precautions common to
the foam blowing industry.
Comparison to other foam blowing agents: SolsticeTM
1233zd(E) has an ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034. This is roughly one order
of magnitude higher than the ODP of HFC-134a, a substitute foam blowing
agent which is considered to have zero ODP.\13\ SolsticeTM
1233zd(E)'s ODP is well below that of CFC-11 and HCFC-141b (with ODPs
ranging from 0.12 to 1.0), the ODSs which it replaces.
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s GWP of 4.7 to 7 is lower than or
comparable to that of other non-ozone-depleting substitutes in the same
foam blowing end uses for which we are finding it acceptable, such as
HFC-245fa with a GWP of 1030, HFC-365mfc with a GWP of 794 and C3-C6
saturated light hydrocarbons with GWPs less than 10. Furthermore,
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s GWP is well below that of CFC-11 and
HCFC-141b (with GWPs ranging from 725 to 4750). Flammability and
toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. The potential health
effects of SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) are common to many foam
blowing agents, including many of those already listed as acceptable
under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
(SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)) acceptable in the end uses listed
above because the overall environmental and human health risk posed by
trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene is lower than or comparable to
the risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end
uses.
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\13\ The ODP of HFC-134a was estimated to be less than 1.5 x
10-5 using a theoretical 2-dimensional model.
Ravishankara et al. 1994. Op. cit.
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2. Formacel[supreg] Z-6
EPA's decision: EPA finds Formacel[supreg] Z-6 is acceptable as a
substitute for HCFC-22, HCFC-142b or blends thereof in:
Polystyrene extruded boardstock & billet
Polystyrene extruded sheet
Rigid polyurethane appliance foam
Rigid polyurethane commercial refrigeration and sandwich
panels
Integral skin polyurethane
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and other
Formacel[supreg] Z-6 is a series of blends with different
percentage contents of the same compounds. The submitter has claimed
its composition as confidential business information (CBI). You may
find the redacted submission under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-
0284 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: Formacel[supreg] Z-6 has no ODP.
Formacel[supreg] Z-6 blends range in GWP from approximately 370 to
1290. Formacel[supreg] Z-6 does not contain VOCs as defined under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs
to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Flammability information: Some components of the Formacel[supreg]
Z-6 blends are flammable. Some specific blends are flammable as
formulated and should be handled with proper precautions, as specified
by the manufacturer. EPA recommends that users follow all requirements
and recommendations specified in the MSDS and other safety precautions
for use of flammable blowing agents used in the foam blowing industry.
Use of Formacel[supreg] Z-6 will require safe handling and shipping as
prescribed by 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).
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include nausea, headache, weakness, or central nervous
system depression with effects such as dizziness, drowsiness,
confusion, or loss of consciousness. The substitute may also irritate
the lungs, skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At high concentrations, the
substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The substitute could cause
asphyxiation, if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space. EPA
anticipates that Formacel[supreg] Z-6 will be used consistent with the
recommendations specified in the manufacturer's MSDS. The manufacturer
recommends an AEL of 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for Formacel[supreg] Z-6. The
AIHA has established a WEEL of 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for at least one of
the components of Formacel[supreg] Z-6. EPA anticipates that users will
be able to meet the manufacturer's recommended workplace exposure limit
(AEL) and any AIHA WEELs for components and will be able to address
potential health risks by following requirements and recommendations in
the MSDS and other safety precautions common in the foam blowing
industry.
Comparison to other foam blowing agents: Formacel[supreg] Z-6 is
not ozone-depleting, comparable to a number of other acceptable non-
ozone-depleting substitutes for these end uses, such as HFC-134a, HFC-
245fa and C3-C6 saturated light hydrocarbons, and in contrast to HCFC-
142b and HCFC-22 (with ODPs ranging from 0.04 to 0.06), the ODSs which
it replaces. Formacel[supreg] Z-6 blends range in GWP from 370 to 1290,
lower than or comparable to those of other non-ozone-depleting
substitutes
[[Page 47773]]
in the same foam blowing end uses for which we are finding it
acceptable, such as HFC-134a with a GWP of 1430 and HFC-245fa with a
GWP of 1030. Furthermore, the GWP of Formacel[supreg] Z-6 is lower than
or comparable to that of the ODSs it replaces, including HCFC-142b and
HCFC-22, with GWPs ranging from 1810 to 2310. Like many other
substitutes in this end use, such as HFC-365mfc or C3-C6 saturated
light hydrocarbons, flammability risks can be addressed by procedures
common in the industry. The toxicity risks are low, as discussed above.
The potential health effects of Formacel[supreg] Z-6 are common to many
foam blowing agents, including many of those already listed as
acceptable under SNAP. Thus, EPA finds Formacel[supreg] Z-6 acceptable
in the end uses listed above because the overall environmental and
human health risk posed by Formacel[supreg] Z-6 is lower than or
comparable to the risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in
the same end uses.
C. Solvent Cleaning
1. HFE-347pcf2
EPA's decision: EPA finds HFE-347pcf2 acceptable as a substitute
for CFC-113, methyl chloroform, and HCFC-225ca, HCFC-225cb, and blends
thereof for use in:
Electronics cleaning
Precision cleaning
HFE-347pcf2 is also known as 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy-1,1,2,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 406-78-0). It is marketed under the
trade name AE-3000. You may find the redacted submission under Docket
item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0280 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: HFE-347pcf2 has no ODP. HFE-347pcf2 has
a 100-year GWP of 580 and an atmospheric lifetime of 7.1 years. HFE-
347pcf2 is currently defined as a VOC under Clean Air Act regulations
(see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and
maintain the NAAQS. The manufacturer has petitioned EPA to exempt HFE-
347pcf2 from that definition based on its claim that the chemical
exhibits low photochemical reactivity. Many states, in particular those
with areas that are not attaining the NAAQS for ozone, currently have
regulations governing the VOC content of solvents.
Flammability information: HFE-347pcf2 is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of this
substitute include coughing, dizziness, dullness, drowsiness, and
headache. Higher concentrations can produce heart irregularities,
central nervous system depression, narcosis, unconsciousness,
respiratory failure, or death. The substitute may also irritate the
skin or eyes.
An assessment was performed to examine the health and environmental
risks of this substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-
HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the name, ``Risk Screen on Substitutes CFC-113,
Methyl Chloroform, and HCFC-141b in Aerosol Solvent, Electronics
Cleaning, and Precision Cleaning Substitute: HFE-347pcf2.'' Based on
this analysis, EPA anticipates that users will be able to use HFE-
347pcf2 in electronics and precision cleaning without appreciable
health risks. EPA anticipates that HFE-347pcf2 will be used consistent
with the recommendations specified in the MSDS. The manufacturer
recommends an AEL of 50 ppm (8-hr TWA). EPA recommends a ceiling limit
\14\ of 150 ppm for HFE-347pcf2. EPA anticipates that users will be
able to meet the workplace exposure limits (manufacturer and EPA
recommendations) based on the risk screen mentioned above. We expect
that users will address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and other safety
precautions common in the solvent cleaning industry.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\14\ A ceiling limit is a concentration of a chemical that no
person should be exposed to for any period of time in order to
prevent adverse health effects.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison to other solvents: HFE-347pcf2's ODP of zero is less
than or comparable to that of other substitutes in electronics and
precision cleaning such as perfluorobutyl iodide with an ODP of less
than 0.005 and HFC-4310mee, HFE-7100 and aqueous cleaners with no ODP.
Its ODP is significantly below those of methyl chloroform, CFC-113,
HCFC-225ca and HCFC-225cb (with ODPs ranging from 0.02 to 0.85), the
ODSs it replaces. HFE-347pcf2's GWP of 540 is lower than that of some
other substitutes in the listed end uses, such as HFC-4310mee with a
GWP of 1640, but higher than the GWP of some other substitutes, such as
HFE-7100 with a GWP of 297 and aqueous cleaners with no direct GWP.
Flammability risks are low and toxicity risks will be addressed when
used according to recommendations in the MSDS and other safety
precautions common in the solvent cleaning industry, as discussed
above. The potential health effects of HFE-347pcf2 are common to many
solvents, including many of those already listed as acceptable under
SNAP. Thus, EPA finds HFE-347pcf2 acceptable in the end uses listed
above because the overall risk to human health and the environment
posed by HFE-347pcf2 is lower than or comparable to the risks posed by
other substitutes found acceptable in the same end uses.
D. Aerosols
1. HFE-347pcf2
EPA's decision: EPA finds HFE-347pcf2 acceptable as a substitute
for CFC-113, methyl chloroform, HCFC-141b, and HCFC-225ca, HCFC-225cb,
and blends thereof for use as an aerosol solvent.
HFE-347pcf2 is also known as 2,2,2-Trifluoroethoxy-1,1,2,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 406-78-0). It is marketed under the
trade name AE-3000. You may find the redacted submission under Docket
item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0280 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: The environmental information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Environmental information'' section in
listing C.1.
Flammability information: HFE-347pcf2 is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: The toxicity information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Toxicity and exposure data'' section
in listing C.1.
EPA anticipates that HFE-347pcf2 will be used consistent with the
recommendations specified in the manufacturer's MSDS. The manufacturer
recommends an AEL of 50 ppm (8-hr TWA). EPA recommends a ceiling limit
of 150 ppm for HFE-347pcf2.
An assessment was performed to examine the health and environmental
risks of this substitute. This assessment is available in docket EPA-
HQ-OAR-2003-0118 under the name, ``Risk Screen on Substitutes CFC-113,
Methyl Chloroform, and HCFC-141b in Aerosol Solvent, Electronics
Cleaning, and Precision Cleaning Substitute: HFE-347pcf2.'' Based on
this analysis, we recommend using this compound as an aerosol solvent
with adequate ventilation and following good industrial hygiene
practice due to the potential neurotoxic effects of this substitute at
high acute (short-term) concentrations. EPA anticipates that users will
be able to meet the workplace exposure limits (manufacturer and EPA
recommendations) and address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the MSDS and other safety
precautions common during use of aerosol solvents.
Comparison to other aerosol solvents: HFE-347pcf2 is not ozone-
depleting,
[[Page 47774]]
comparable to that of a number of acceptable non-ozone depleting
substitutes for the aerosol solvent end use such as HFC-4310mee, HFE-
7100 and trans-dichloroethylene, and in contrast to methyl chloroform,
CFC-113, HCFC-141b, HCFC-225ca and HCFC-225cb (with ODPs ranging from
0.02 to 0.85), the ODSs it replaces. HFE-347pcf2's GWP of 540 is lower
than that of some other substitutes for CFC-113 in the listed end use,
such as HFC-4310mee with a GWP of 1640, but higher than the GWP of some
other substitutes, such as HFE-7100 with a GWP of 297 and trans-
dichloroethylene with a GWP less than 10. Its GWP is well below that of
CFC-113 with a GWP of 6130, comparable to that of HCFC-141b and HCFC-
225cb with GWPs of 717 and 606, and higher than those for methyl
chloroform and HCFC-225ca (with GWPs of 146 and 122). Flammability
risks are low, as discussed above. Toxicity risks can be managed when
the guidelines in the manufacturer's MSDS and other safety precautions
common during use of aerosol solvents in industry are followed. The
potential health effects of HFE-347pcf2 are common to many solvents,
including many of those already listed as acceptable under SNAP. Thus,
EPA finds HFE-347pcf2 acceptable in the end use listed above because
the overall risk to human health and the environment posed by HFE-
347pcf2 is lower than or comparable to the risks posed by other
substitutes found acceptable in the same end use.
2. Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene (SolsticeTM
1233zd(E))
EPA's decision: EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
acceptable as a substitute for CFC-113, methyl chloroform, HCFC-141b,
and HCFC-225ca, HCFC-225cb, and blends thereof for use as an aerosol
solvent.
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene ((E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene, CAS Reg. No. 102687-65-0) is marketed under the
trade names SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) and SolsticeTM
Performance Fluid in this end use. You may find the redacted submission
under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118-0285 at http://www.regulations.gov.
Environmental information: The environmental information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Environmental information'' section in
listing A.2.
Flammability information: SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: The toxicity information for this
substitute is set forth in the ``Toxicity and exposure data'' section
in listing A.2.
EPA anticipates that SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) will be used
consistent with the recommendations specified in the manufacturer's
MSDSs. The manufacturer recommends an AEL of 300 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E). EPA anticipates that users will be
able to meet the manufacturer's recommended workplace exposure limit
(AEL) and address potential health risks by following requirements and
recommendations in the MSDS and other safety precautions common during
use of aerosol solvents.
Comparison to other aerosol solvents: SolsticeTM
1233zd(E) has an ODP of 0.00024 to 0.00034. This is comparable to the
ODPs of trans-1,2-dichloroethylene and trichloroethylene and an order
of magnitude lower than the ODP of perchloroethylene, other substitutes
in the aerosol solvents end use that are not regulated as ODS.\15,16\
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)'s ODP is well below those of methyl
chloroform, CFC-113, HCFC-141b, HCFC-225ca and HCFC-225cb (with ODPs
ranging from 0.02 to 0.85), the ODSs it replaces. SolsticeTM
1233zd(E)'s GWP of 4.7 to 7 is lower than or comparable to that of
other substitutes in the aerosol solvent end use, such as HFC-4310mee
with a GWP of 1640, HFE-7100 with a GWP of 297 and trans-
dichloroethylene with a GWP less than 10. Furthermore, the GWP of
SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) is well below those of the ODSs being
replaced, including CFC-113, methyl chloroform, HCF-141b, HCFC-225ca
and HCFC-225cb, with GWPs ranging from 122 to 6130. Flammability and
toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. The potential health
effects of SolsticeTM 1233zd(E) are common to many solvents,
including many of those already listed as acceptable under SNAP. Thus,
EPA finds trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene
(SolsticeTM 1233zd(E)) acceptable in the end use listed
above because the overall environmental and human health risk posed by
trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-ene is lower than or comparable to
the risks posed by other substitutes found acceptable in the same end
use.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\15\ Wuebbles and Patten, 2010. Atmospheric lifetimes and Ozone
Depletion Potentials of trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropylene and
trans-1,2-dichloroethylene in a three-dimensional model. Atmos.
Chem. Phys., 10, 10867-10874, 2010.
\16\ WMO, 2010. Section 1.3.6.2.
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E. Fire Suppression
1. Cold Fire[supreg] (Surfactant Blend A)
EPA's decision: EPA finds Cold Fire[supreg] (Surfactant Blend A) is
acceptable as a substitute for halon 1301 for total flooding uses in
both occupied and unoccupied areas.
Cold Fire[supreg] is a liquid fire suppression agent. The
manufacturer of Cold Fire[supreg] has claimed its composition as CBI.
You may find the redacted submission under Docket item EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-
0118-0288 at http://www.regulations.gov. EPA previously listed
``Surfactant Blend A,'' a blend consistent with the composition of Cold
Fire[supreg], as an acceptable substitute for halon 1211 in the
streaming end use (March 18, 1994; 59 FR 13044).
Environmental information: Cold Fire[supreg] has no ODP and no GWP.
Cold Fire[supreg] does not contain any VOCs as defined under CAA
regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs
to attain and maintain the NAAQS.
Cold Fire[supreg] is expected to aerosolize rapidly during
expulsion from the fire suppression system and then settle as a liquid
on surfaces in the space being protected, rather than becoming airborne
and moving to surface waters. After settling, cleanup would involve
washing or rinsing of surfaces.
Cold Fire[supreg] is not biodegradable. During cleanup, we
recommend that discharges of Cold Fire[supreg] be collected (e.g.,
mopped) and sealed in containers and then disposed of in accordance
with local, state, and federal requirements and as specified in the
manufacturer's MSDS. EPA recommends that discharges of Cold
Fire[supreg] not be released to waterways. The MSDS also specifies that
training for safe handling procedures be provided to all employees that
would be likely to dispose of Cold Fire[supreg] at cleanup. EPA
anticipates that users will be able to avoid potential risks to water
and aquatic life by following requirements and recommendations in the
MSDS.
Flammability information: Cold Fire[supreg] is non-flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: The majority of the constituents in the
Cold Fire[supreg] formulation are classified by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) as ``generally recognized as safe'' (GRAS)
compounds, and the remaining constituents are FDA-approved for use as
direct or indirect food additives. These compounds are commonly used in
food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic applications. Individual constituents
may cause gastrointestinal discomfort (if excessively ingested) or
minor irritation to the eyes, skin, and/or respiratory
[[Page 47775]]
tract. Given the low toxicity of its constituents, EPA expects no
adverse health effects when the recommended safety precautions and
normal industry practices are applied and use of the substitute is in
accordance with the manufacturer's MSDS. To minimize worker exposure to
any chemicals during manufacture, installation, and maintenance through
an accidental release or spill, EPA recommends the following:
Proper Level C or higher personal protective equipment
(PPE) be used during handling of the substitute (e.g., goggles,
gloves);
adequate ventilation should be in place;
all spills should be cleaned up immediately in accordance
with good industrial hygiene practices;
after spill and cleanup, dispose of material(s)
contaminated with Cold Fire[supreg] in accordance with local, state and
federal laws;
training for safe handling procedures should be provided
to all employees that would be likely to handle containers of Cold
Fire[supreg]; and
in case of an inadvertent discharge, workers should
immediately follow the instructions listed in the MSDS for Cold
Fire[supreg].
The above recommendations are all included in the manufacturer's
MSDS. EPA anticipates that users will be able to address potential
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the MSDS
and other safety precautions common during use of fire suppressants in
industry.
Comparison to other fire suppressants: Cold Fire[supreg] has no ODP
or GWP in contrast to halon 1301 (with an ODP of 16 and a GWP of 7140),
the ODS which it replaces. Cold Fire[supreg]'s ODP of zero and GWP of
zero are comparable to or less than those of other acceptable non-
ozone-depleting substitutes for this end use, such as Inert Gas 541
with a GWP of 0, HFC-227ea with a GWP of 3220 and HFC-125 with a GWP of
3500. Toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, EPA finds Cold
Fire[supreg] (Surfactant Blend A) acceptable in the end use listed
above because the overall environmental and human health risk posed by
Cold Fire[supreg] is lower than or comparable to the risks posed by
other substitutes found acceptable in the same end use.
II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements and Authority for the SNAP Program
Section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA) requires EPA to develop a
program for evaluating alternatives to ozone-depleting substances
(ODSs). EPA refers to this program as the Significant New Alternatives
Policy (SNAP) program. The major provisions of section 612 are:
1. Rulemaking
Section 612(c) requires EPA to promulgate rules making it unlawful
to replace any class I substance (chlorofluorocarbon, halon, carbon
tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, and hydrobromofluorocarbon) or class
II substance (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) 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.
2. Listing of Unacceptable/Acceptable Substitutes
Section 612(c) requires EPA to publish a list of the substitutes
unacceptable for specific uses and to publish a corresponding list of
acceptable alternatives for specific uses. The list of acceptable
substitutes may be found at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html and the lists of ``unacceptable,'' ``acceptable subject to
use conditions,'' and ``acceptable subject to narrowed use limits''
substitutes are found in the appendices to subpart G of 40 CFR part 82.
3. 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 six months.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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. EPA's Regulations Implementing Section 612
On March 18, 1994, EPA published the original rulemaking (59 FR
13044) which established the process for administering the SNAP program
and issued EPA's first lists identifying acceptable and unacceptable
substitutes in the major industrial use sectors (subpart G of 40 CFR
part 82). These sectors--refrigeration and air conditioning; foam
blowing; cleaning solvents; fire suppression and explosion protection;
sterilants; aerosols; adhesives, coatings and inks; and tobacco
expansion--are the principal industrial sectors that historically
consumed the largest volumes of ODS.
Section 612 of the CAA requires EPA to list as acceptable those
substitutes that do not present a significantly greater risk to human
health and the environment as compared with other substitutes that are
currently or potentially available.
C. How the Regulations for the SNAP Program Work
Under the SNAP regulations, anyone who plans to market or produce a
substitute to replace a class I substance or class II substance in one
of the eight major industrial use sectors must provide notice to the
Agency, including health and safety information on the substitute, at
least 90 days before introducing it into interstate commerce for
significant new use as an alternative. 40 CFR 82.176(a). This
requirement applies to the persons planning to introduce the substitute
into interstate commerce,\17\ which typically are
[[Page 47776]]
chemical manufacturers but may include importers, formulators,
equipment manufacturers, and end-users when they are responsible for
introducing a substitute into commerce.\18\ The 90-day SNAP review
process begins once EPA receives the submission and determines that the
submission includes complete and adequate data. 40 CFR 82.180(a). The
CAA and the SNAP regulations, 40 CFR 82.174(a), prohibit use of a
substitute earlier than 90 days after notice has been provided to the
Agency.
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\17\ As defined at 40 CFR 82.104, ``interstate commerce'' means
the distribution or transportation of any product between one state,
territory, possession or the District of Columbia, and another
state, territory, possession or the District of Columbia, or the
sale, use or manufacture of any product in more than one state,
territory, possession or District of Columbia. The entry points for
which a product is introduced into interstate commerce are the
release of a product from the facility in which the product was
manufactured, the entry into a warehouse from which the domestic
manufacturer releases the product for sale or distribution, and at
the site of United States Customs clearance.
\18\ As defined at 40 CFR 82.172, ``end-use'' means processes or
classes of specific applications within major industrial sectors
where a substitute is used to replace an ODS.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Agency has identified four possible decision categories for
substitutes that are submitted for evaluation: acceptable; acceptable
subject to use conditions; acceptable subject to narrowed use limits;
and unacceptable \19\ (40 CFR 82.180(b)). Use conditions and narrowed
use limits are both considered ``use restrictions'' and are explained
below. Substitutes that are deemed acceptable with no use restrictions
(no use conditions or narrowed use limits) can be used for all
applications within the relevant end-uses within the sector.
Substitutes that are acceptable subject to use restrictions may be used
only in accordance with those restrictions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\19\ The SNAP regulations also include ``pending,'' referring to
submissions for which EPA has not reached a determination, under
this provision.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
After reviewing a substitute, the Agency may make a determination
that a substitute is acceptable only if certain conditions in the way
that the substitute is used are met to minimize risks to human health
and the environment. EPA describes such substitutes as ``acceptable
subject to use conditions.'' Entities that use these substitutes
without meeting the associated use conditions are in violation of EPA's
SNAP regulations. 40 CFR 82.174(c).
For some substitutes, the Agency may permit a narrowed range of use
within an end-use or sector. For example, the Agency may limit the use
of a substitute to certain end-uses or specific applications within an
industry sector. EPA describes these substitutes as ``acceptable
subject to narrowed use limits.'' A person using a substitute that is
acceptable subject to narrowed use limits in applications and end-uses
that are not consistent with the narrowed use limit is using the
substitute in an unacceptable manner and is in violation of section 612
of the CAA and EPA's SNAP regulations. 40 CFR 82.174(c).
The Agency publishes its SNAP program decisions in the Federal
Register (FR). EPA publishes decisions concerning substitutes that are
deemed acceptable subject to use restrictions (use conditions and/or
narrowed use limits), or substitutes deemed unacceptable, as proposed
rulemakings to provide the public with an opportunity to comment,
before publishing final decisions.
In contrast, EPA publishes decisions concerning substitutes that
are deemed acceptable with no restrictions in ``notices of
acceptability'' or ``determinations of acceptability,'' rather than as
proposed and final rules. As described in the preamble to the rule
initially implementing the SNAP program (59 FR 13044, March 18, 1994),
EPA does not believe that rulemaking procedures are necessary to list
alternatives that are acceptable without restrictions because such
listings neither impose any sanction nor prevent anyone from using a
substitute.
Many SNAP listings include ``Comments'' or ``Further Information''
to provide additional information on substitutes. Since this additional
information is not part of the regulatory decision, these statements
are not binding for use of the substitute under the SNAP program.
However, regulatory requirements so listed are binding under other
regulatory programs (e.g., worker protection regulations promulgated by
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)). The
``Further Information'' classification does not necessarily include all
other legal obligations pertaining to the use of the substitute. While
the items listed are not legally binding under the SNAP program, EPA
encourages users of substitutes to apply all statements in the
``Further Information'' column in their use of these substitutes. In
many instances, the information simply refers to sound operating
practices that have already been identified in existing industry and/or
building codes or standards. Thus many of the statements, if adopted,
would not require the affected user to make significant changes in
existing operating practices.
D. Additional Information About the SNAP Program
For copies of the comprehensive SNAP lists of substitutes or
additional information on SNAP, refer to EPA's Ozone Depletion Web site
at: www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/index.html. For more information on the
Agency's process for administering the SNAP program or criteria for
evaluation of substitutes, refer to the March 18, 1994, SNAP final
rulemaking (59 FR 13044), codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. A
complete chronology of SNAP decisions and the appropriate citations is
found at: http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/chron.html.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: July 27, 2012.
Sarah Dunham,
Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs.
APPENDIX A: SUMMARY OF ACCEPTABLE DECISIONS
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Centrifugal chillers (new only). Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ozone
a substitute for CFC- depletion potential (ODP) of
11 and HCFC-123. approximately 0.00024 to
0.00034. It has a 100-year (100-
yr) global warming potential
(GWP) of 4.7 to 7. Its Chemical
Abstracts Service Registry
Number (CAS Reg. No.) is 102687-
65-0.
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm over an 8-hour time-weighted
average (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HFO-1234ze as a Acceptable........ HFO-1234ze is also known as HFO-
substitute for CFC-11 1234ze(E), HFC-1234ze or trans-
and HCFC-123. 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene
(CAS Reg. No. 29118-24-9). HFO-
1234ze has a 100-yr GWP of 6.
[[Page 47777]]
The American Industrial Hygiene
Association (AIHA) has
established a workplace
environmental exposure limit
(WEEL) of 800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
HFO-1234ze.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reciprocating, screw and scroll HFO-1234ze as a Acceptable........ HFO-1234ze is also known as HFO-
chillers (new only). substitute for CFC-12, 1234ze(E), HFC-1234ze or trans-
R-500, HCFC-22 and 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene
HCFC blends containing (CAS Reg. No. 29118-24-9). HFO-
HCFC-22 and/or HCFC- 1234ze has a 100-yr GWP of 6.
142b. The AIHA has established a WEEL
of 800 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFO-
1234ze.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vending machines (new only)..... Carbon dioxide (CO2 or Acceptable........ The Occupational Safety and
R-744) as a substitute Health Administration (OSHA) has
for CFC-12, HCFC-22 established a required 8 hour/
and R-502. day, 40 hour/week permissible
exposure limit (PEL) for CO2 of
5000 ppm. The National Institute
for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has established a
15-minute recommended short-term
exposure limit (STEL) of 30,000
ppm.
EPA recommends that users follow
all requirements and
recommendations specified in
American Society for Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
standard 15.
EPA recommends placing vending
machines using CO2 in well-
ventilated spaces.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-mechanical heat transfer C7 Fluoroketone (FK-6-1- Acceptable........ C7 Fluoroketone has a 100-year
(new and retrofit). 12 or NovecTM 774) as global warming potential of
a substitute for CFC- approximately 1. This substitute
113. is a blend of two isomers, 3-
pentanone,1,1,1,2,4,5,5,5-
octafluoro-2,4-
bis(trifluoromethyl) (CAS Reg.
No. 813-44-5) and 3-
hexanone,1,1,1,2,4,4,5,5,6,6,6-
undecafluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)
(CAS Reg. No. 813-45-6).
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 225
ppm (8-hr TWA) for C7
Fluoroketone.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's MSDS and guidance for all listed refrigerants.
Foam Blowing Agents
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End use Substitute Decision Further information \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane and Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
polyisocyanurate laminated trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
boardstock. a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
11 or HCFC-141b. 0.00034. It has a 100-yr GWP of
4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
102687-65-0.
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane appliance.... Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
11 or HCFC-141b. 0.00034. It has a 100-year GWP
of 4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
102687-65-0.
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
22, HCFC-142b, or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane spray, Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
commercial refrigeration and trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
sandwich panels. a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
11 or HCFC-141b. 0.00034. It has a 100-year GWP
of 4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
102687-65-0.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane commercial Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
refrigeration and sandwich a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
panels. 22, HCFC-142b or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rigid polyurethane slabstock and Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
other. trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
11 or HCFC-141b. 0.00034. It has a 100-year GWP
of 4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
102687-65-0.
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
22, HCFC-142b or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 47778]]
Polystyrene: extruded sheet..... Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
22, HCFC-142b or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extruded polystyrene, boardstock Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
and billet. a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
22, HCFC-142b or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Integral skin polyurethane...... Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
11 or HCFC-141b. 0.00034. It has a 100-year GWP
of 4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
102687-65-0.
The manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Formacel[supreg] Z-6 as Acceptable........ The manufacturer recommends an
a substitute for HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of
22, HCFC-142b or 1000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for
blends thereof. Formacel[supreg] Z-6.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's MSDS and manufacturer's guidance for using all listed foam
blowing agents.
Aerosols
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-uses Substitute Decision Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Solvents........................ HFE-347pcf2 as a Acceptable........ HFE-347pcf2 has a 100-yr GWP of
substitute for CFC- 580. Its CAS Reg. No. is 406-78-
113, methyl 0.
chloroform, HCFC-141b The manufacturer recommends an
and HCFC-225ca, HCFC- acceptable exposure limit of 50
225cb, and blends ppm (8-hr TWA) for this
thereof. substitute. EPA recommends a
ceiling limit (maximum
concentration) of 150 ppm for
HFE-347pcf2.
Observe recommendations in the
manufacturer's MSDS and guidance
for using this substitute,
particularly with respect to
proper ventilation and other
industrial hygiene practices.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3- Acceptable........ Trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-
trifluoroprop-1-ene as trifluoroprop-1-ene has an ODP
a substitute for CFC- of approximately 0.00024 to
113, methyl 0.00034. It has a 100-year GWP
chloroform, HCFC-141b of 4.7 to 7. Its CAS Reg. No. is
and HCFC-225ca, HCFC- 102687-65-0.
225cb, and blends The manufacturer recommends an
thereof. acceptable exposure limit of 300
ppm (8-hr TWA) for trans-1-
chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-
ene.
Observe recommendations in the
manufacturer's MSDS and guidance
for using this substitute.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Solvent Cleaning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-uses Substitute Decision Further information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Electronics cleaning, Precision HFE-347pcf2 as a Acceptable........ HFE-347pcf2 has a 100-yr GWP of
cleaning. substitute for CFC- 580. Its CAS Reg. No. is 406-78-
113, methyl 0.
chloroform, and HCFC- The manufacturer recommends an
225ca, HCFC-225cb, and acceptable exposure limit of 50
blends thereof. ppm (8-hr TWA) for this
substitute. EPA recommends a
ceiling limit (maximum
concentration) of 150 ppm for
HFE-347pcf2.
Observe recommendations in the
manufacturer's MSDS and guidance
for using this substitute,
particularly with respect to
proper ventilation and other
industrial hygiene practices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fire Suppression
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information\1\ \2\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total flooding systems (occupied Cold Fire[supreg] Acceptable........ Observe recommendations in the
and unoccupied areas). (Surfactant Blend A) manufacturer's MSDS and guidance
as a substitute for for using this substitute.
halon 1301.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ EPA recommends that users consult Section VIII of the OSHA Technical Manual for information on selecting the
appropriate types of personal protective equipment for all listed fire suppression agents. 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.
\2\ Use of all listed fire suppression agents should conform to relevant OSHA requirements, including 29 CFR
Part 1910, subpart L, Sec. Sec. 1910.160 and 1910.162.
[[Page 47779]]
[FR Doc. 2012-19688 Filed 8-9-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P