A new study led by the University of Bristol reveals that the replacement car refrigerant HFO-1234yf is significantly contributing to rising levels of a "forever chemical" pollutant known as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) across Europe. This finding, published on July 8, 2026, highlights the environmental impact of this refrigerant, which has been used in nearly all new cars since 2017.
Impact of HFO-1234yf on TFA Levels
The research indicates that despite the older refrigerant HFC-134a being emitted at rates approximately 22 times higher globally, HFO-1234yf is responsible for a substantial portion of TFA production. The model predicts that HFO-1234yf could be generating up to 75% of the TFA levels attributed to HFC-134a.
HFO-1234yf was introduced to replace HFC-134a due to its potent greenhouse gas effects. However, the study shows that HFO-1234yf breaks down in the atmosphere more rapidly, leading to higher TFA production. The findings suggest that TFA deposition is particularly concentrated in regions like Italy, Austrian, Germany, Switzerland, and France.
Modeling TFA Emissions and Depositions
To assess the impact of these refrigerants, researchers utilized a global tropospheric chemistry transport model that simulates emissions and atmospheric reactions. This model indicated that TFA deposition from HFO-1234yf could be up to 3.6 times higher in certain European regions compared to HFC-134a, even under conservative estimates.
- HFO-1234yf introduced in 2017
- TFA levels could reach 75% of those from HFC-134a
- Concentration hotspots identified in Italy and surrounding countries
Health Concerns and Regulatory Implications
Dr. Rayne Holland, the lead author of the study, expressed concerns about the degradation products of these chemicals, which can form other potent greenhouse gases and long-lasting pollutants. The European Chemicals Agency recently classified TFA as Reproductive Toxicity Category 1B, raising alarms about its potential health impacts.
The urgency of understanding TFA sources is underscored by the increasing adoption of HFO-1234yf. As usage grows, so does the potential for environmental deposition of TFA, necessitating further investigation into its long-term effects.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Phys.org. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
