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duxthe1 · #59 07-13-2011, 07:38 PM

Using the same logic to condenm propane I can conceive an instance where it would actually be SAFER than R12 in a collision scenario. Car A slams into the rear of Car B. Car B's fuel tank is compromised and ignited. Car A's condensor is compromised and begins to evacuate.

If Car A has R12 the flames from the fuel tank fire will burn the R12 and release mustard gas potentially posioning / killing people in the vicinity. If Car A has R290, the charge will burn with the tank's fuel releasing water vapor and CO2. Point goes to Propane.

I think the problem with this discussion is that people associate relative risk with no risk. Take the argument being made you don't want flamable materials flowing though the dash. R134A is flammable with a surprisingly low flash point when pressurized but nobody is afraid of R134A. I think they should be, flammability issues aside, it's a known carcinigen associated with testicular cancer. Now that is something I wouldn't want flowing though my dash. R12 destroys ozone and decomposes into mustard gas. Again risk is present. They weren't the approved refrigerants b/c they are what's safest and best performing, they are the only approved refrigerants b/c Dupont has the market cornered and enough politicians pockets to keep better performing 1$/pound refrigerants off the market.