HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons)

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are man-made chemicals used primarily as refrigerants, air conditioning agents, and in aerosol propellants. They are effective at absorbing and releasing heat, making them valuable for cooling systems. However, HFCs are potent greenhouse gases, meaning they trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere much more effectively than carbon dioxide. Although they do not deplete the ozone layer like some older chemicals (e.g., CFCs), their high global warming potential has led to international efforts to phase them out and find more environmentally friendly alternatives.