Chlorofluorocarbons health effects

Evidence that many of these compounds can have adverse effects on the immune, endocrine and nervous systems and that some are carcinogenic has grown during the last decade. The role of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and of methyl bromide in the ozone layer depletion is well established (ref. 3).It is therefore not surprising that many halogenated derivatives are cast as environmental and health villains by various concerned groups who call for total phase out of chlorine and chlorinated hydrocarbons. 

Tetrafluoroethane (hydrofluorocarbon-134a or HFC-134a, b.p. -25°C), which was developed as a replacement for the chlorofluorocarbons that were banned because of ozone-depleting effects, is approved in the UK for the production of natural food flavor extracts. It can be applied to optimize the extraction of plant materials and provides an environmental advantage, as well as health and safety benefits [55,56]. 

Chlorinated solvents (cleaning) Solvents containing carbon and chlorine, such as trichloroethylene (TCE), methylene chloride (MEC), Perchloroethylene (PERC), and 1,1,1 trichloroethane (TCA). Very effective solvents but regulated because of health and environmental concerns. Example Carbon tetrachloride (CCI4), a fully chlorinated solvent. See also Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) solvents Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) solvents. 

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