A Study of Freon Vapor Loss Based on 1991 Purchases,
Abstract
The Center's industrial processes require extensive use of solvents to meet its cleaning needs. Among the solvents used are CFC-113 and 1, 1, 1-Trichloroethane or Methylchloroform (MCF). CFC-113 is a chlorofluorocarbon (1, 1,2-Trichloro l,2,2-Trifluoroethane) Historically, the Center has used over two million pounds of CFC-113 annually. Of this amount, over six hundred thousand pounds had to be purchased to replace that which was lost. Not all CFC-113 use is tied into closed-loop reclaimable systems. Therefore, CFC-113 lost to the atmosphere or sent off base as hazardous waste had to be replaced. CFC-113, in addition to being a hazardous waste, is a serious threat to the atmosphere. Its impact on the ozone layer has generated action to curb its production and use worldwide. CFC-113 now costs the Center $2.40 per pound ($31.44 per gallon). This is 400% of the cost just two years ago ($0.60 per pound). In addition, the cost of recovery of vapors from the Center's industrial processes, the cost of hazardous waste disposal, and the cost of reprocessing used CFC-113 contribute to the total cost of its use. The cost of using CFC-113, the threat of even higher cost resulting from reduced availability in the future, and the environmental issues have caused the Center to take an aggressive role in finding alternatives for this and other hazardous solvents. For the past three years, Center personnel have been engaged in an intensive evaluation of equipment, techniques, and processes to identify suitable alternatives for solvent uses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 31, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA332538
Entities
People
- Tesfa Abraha