HFC-245fa Systems Co-Blown with CO2 (Water): A Quality, Cost Effective HFC Alternative for Construction Foam Applications

The effective use of insulation is key to energy conservation. The effectiveness of insulation is dependent upon many factors. In the case of rigid foam insulation a key factor is the blowing agent used. Industry evaluations have shown that HFC-245fa produces foams with the highest insulation value of any in the construction market. Meeting the end users needs is critical to the success of any new product. Today’s insulation specifiers are not only concerned about energy savings but also cost. Insulation manufacturers are very conscious of the effect chemical and manufacturing changes have on product cost. HFC-245fa/CO 2 (water) technology provides a nonflammable blowing agent alternative. HFC-245fa foams co-blown with relatively high levels of CO 2 (water) demonstrate exceptional physical properties. The foams in some applications have physical properties similar to CFC-11 foams. This paper discusses the advantages of this technology vs. CFC-11, HCFC-141b, and HFC-245fa technology. It will also include the exciting details of the latest construction trials. The trials demonstrate that the HFC-245fa/CO 2 (water) technology meets the requirements of existing manufacturing equipment and system shipping containers. In addition, an economic model and yield analysis based on the results of the roofing spray foam trial illustrates that the HFC-245fa/CO 2 (water) technology produces foams, which are both quality and cost competitive with current HCFC-141b technology.