On December 19, 2011 Neutronics Inc. issued a press release detailing a new and dangerous R134a contaminant affecting the automotive, commercial, and refrigerated transportation industries. The primary contaminant affecting these industries is Methyl Chloride (R40). R40 is extremely toxic, flammable and highly reactive when exposed to aluminum. R40 is not suitable for use in R134a refrigerant systems and if used in a system poses potentially harmful and dangerous safety concerns. For the press release in its entirety, and other important information, please refer to the Urgent News/Data section.

In early 2011 several explosions resulting in fatalities were due in significant part to contaminated R134a. While these fatalities occurred in the transport shipping industry, the problem is not limited to one industry or specific region of the world. Auto AC Reporter recently covered the discovery of such contaminated refrigerant in European passenger cars.

Industry is particularly concerned with contaminated virgin R134a cylinders containing R40 and other unsuitable refrigerants. Harmful to service equipment and mechanics alike, R40 is flammable and toxic in small quantities. R40 is also incompatible with aluminum, which is found in virtually every refrigerant system. When aluminum is exposed to R40, a chemical reaction takes place, creating Trimethylaluminum, a highly unstable substance that is explosive upon contact with air.
  
Compounding the problem is the worldwide counterfeiting of popular brands, which have been found to contain dangerous contaminants. As stated in an article by ACR News, 6000 cylinders of counterfeit Honeywell branded refrigerant were seized in the United Arab Emirates in August 2011. These were reported to contain "dangerous toxic and flammable substances" in their press release.

For more information on how to protect your employees, customers, and service equipment, please contact us.

Email: info@neutronicsinc.com
Telephone: 610.524.8800
Fax: 610.524.8807