Substitutes in Foam Blowing Agents
On this page:
Overview
Under Title VI of the Clean Air Act, the SNAP program identifies and evaluates substitutes in end-uses that have historically used ozone-depleting substances (ODS). SNAP listings of acceptable alternatives can also help sectors transition away from high global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) addressed under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act including its Technology Transitions Program. For example, some substitutes that are listed as acceptable under the SNAP program, starting with the first SNAP rulemaking in 1994, might be subject to more recent restrictions established under the Technology Transitions Program. For detailed information on specific restrictions and guidance, please refer to the Technology Transitions Program.
Substitutes in Foam Blowing Agents
The link below provides additional information on the substitutes listed as acceptable in the end-uses within foam blowing sector noted in SNAP Notice 25
Environmental, Health, and Flammability Info on Substitutes for HCFC-22 and 142b
End-uses
Foam blowing agents encompass a wide variety of applications including refrigerators, buildings, automobiles, furniture, packaging, and many more. The blowing agent is used to create a cellular structure from liquid plastic resin, and in the case of foam used for insulation it functions as an insulating component of the foam.
Rigid Polyurethane: Appliance
Appliance foam includes insulation foam in domestic refrigerators and freezers.
Rigid Polyurethane: Commercial Refrigeration
Commercial refrigeration foam includes insulation for pipes, walls and metal doors in commercial refrigeration equipment, vending machines, coolers, buoyancy, and refrigerated transport vehicles.
Rigid Polyurethane: Marine Flotation Foam
Marine flotation foam is used in boat manufacturing for both structural and flotation purposes.
Flexible Polyurethane
Flexible polyurethane includes foam furniture, bedding, chair cushions, and shoe soles.
Integral Skin Polyurethane
Integral skin polyurethane includes car steering wheels, dashboards, and shoe soles.
Polystyrene: Extruded Boardstock & Billet
Extruded boardstock and billet includes insulation for roofing, walls, flooring, and pipes.
Rigid Polyurethane & Polyisocyanurate Laminated Boardstock
Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate laminated boardstock includes insulation for roofing and walls.
Phenolic Insulation Board & Bunstock
Phenolic insulation board and bunstock includes insulation for roofing and walls.