Arkema launches its website www.forane427a.com

From December 31st 2009, European regulations require a ban on the use of HCFC*-22 fluids for the maintenance of air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Arkema has been anticipating this deadline since 2005 by launching Forane® 427A, a 100% HFC** and one of the lowest GWP (Global Warming Potential) HCFC-22 retrofit solutions available on the market.

Forane® 427A refrigerant fluid is used as an alternative to help extend the life of existing installations, while complying with current regulations.

Through its latest website www.forane427a.com, Arkema provides end-users in Europe with technical and environmental information on Forane® 427A to assist them with the retrofitting of their refrigeration equipment. The site is also intended for maintenance contractors as it explains the regulatory data regarding the ban on HCFC-22, and so can help them provide a better service to their own customers.

Visitors to the website will also be able to contact Arkema via an email address, and all enquiries will be answered within 24hrs.

In the United States, Forane® 427A has just been granted « Significant New Alternatives Policy » (SNAP) approval by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for use immediately in existing refrigeration installations as a substitute to HCFC-22, due to be banned gradually from the North-American market from 2010.

HCFC* : Hydrochlorofluorocarbon, a 2nd generation refrigerant fluid

HFC** : Hydrofluorocarbon, a 3rd generation refrigerant fluid

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A global chemical player, Arkema consists of 3 coherent and related business segments: Vinyl Products, Industrial Chemicals, and Performance Products. Present in over 40 countries with 15,200 employees, Arkema achieves sales of 5.7 billion euros. With its 6 research centers in France, the United States and Japan, and internationally recognized brands, Arkema holds leadership positions in its principal markets.