How are they used and what is their environmental impact?
Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) are the fourth-generation of fluorine-based gases.
HFOs are mainly used as refrigerants, blowing agents, propellants and solvents. As a refrigerant, you can find HFOs in heat pumps, air conditioning system and commercial cooling installations.
As the role of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) is phased-down, HFOs can help ensure systems maintain their safety and energy efficiency while still being an economical alternative.
Additionally, because HFOs are already decoupled from natural gas, they are an ideal greener alternative to HFCs. HFOs have zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) and a very low GWP (Global Warming Potential).