ABSTRACT
Since the introduction of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the 1930s a large body of scientific information has been obtained which is consistent with the theory that chlorine atoms, released from long-lived CFCs, by the action of short-wavelength solar ultraviolet radiation, initiate the ozone destruction cycle. Historically, CFCs have fulfilled a true societal need. Because of their inertness, stability, and low toxicity they have been used in a wide variety of applications. The largest single use of these compounds is in the area of refrigeration. Food chain management and air conditioning, combined, constituted about 30% of the 2.5 billion pounds of CFCs produced in 1988. An ideal CFC substitute is one that offers identical performance properties of the CFC it replaces with the added stipulation that it does not destroy the ozone layer and has low global warming potential. Low toxicity, a property of CFCs, and shorter atmospheric lifetimes compared to CFCs is also preferred.
