HFC 134a or 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane
INCI = Tetrafluoroethane
Vapor Pressure at 70F = 96 PSIG Vapor Pressure at 130F = 180 PSIG
1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane is an inert gas used primarily as a "high-temperature" refrigerant for domestic refrigeration and automobile air conditioners. These devices began using 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane in the early 1990s as a replacement for the more environmentally harmful R-12. Other uses include plastic foam blowing, as a cleaning solvent, a propellant for the delivery of pharmaceuticals (e.g. bronchodilators), wine cork removers, gas dusters and in air driers for removing the moisture from compressed air. 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane is also commonly used as a propellant for air soft air guns and as an emergency nonflammable signal and boat horns. With the new regulations coming soon, it will not be feasible to use 134a, due to its high Global warming Potential (GWP = 1300 x CO2) for casual use products, and its use may be limited to emergency signal devices.
HFO 1234ze or 1,3,3,3-Tetrafluoropropene
INCI = Tetrafluoropropene
Vapor Pressure at 70F = 46 PSIG
1,3,3,3-Tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze) is a hydrofluoroolefin. It was developed as a "fourth generation" refrigerant to replace R-134a and as a blowing agent for foam and aerosol applications. The use of R-134a is being phased out because of its high global- warming potential. HFO-1234ez has zero ozone-depletion potential and a low global-warming potential (GWP = 6). Tetrafluoropropene is an exciting new, non-flammable propellant with a low vapor pressure that we use in cosmetic spray applications and mousse formulations. If you have a high end product where a nice misty delivery of a non-flammable end product is desired, then let’s consider formulating with HFO 1234ze
Non-Flammable
Safer to store, handle and ship, with a reduced fire risk in production and in everyday use.
VOC-Exempt
Both propellants are exempt from VOC regulations, helping your products meet air quality requirements.
Zero Ozone Depletion
Neither propellant damages the ozone layer, so they’re a responsible choice for modern formulations.
Low Global Warming Potential
HFO 1234ze has a GWP of 6, compared with 1300 for HFC 134a: a future-ready option as regulations tighten.