1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane

1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (CAS 811-97-2) is a hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant and propellant. Also known as R-134a and marketed as Suva 134a.

Where is 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane used?

• Automotive and commercial HVAC: primary refrigerant
• Air conditioning circuits meeting OEM specifications for vehicle climate control
• Aerospace and defense: environmental control systems in aircraft cabins and ground support equipment
• Aerosol formulations: propellant and carrier solvent for technical sprays such as contact cleaners and precision electronics maintenance products
• Oil and gas: specialized leak detection equipment
• It is also utilized in portable cooling units operating in field environments.

Good to know: It replaced ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons in refrigeration and aerosol systems. Refrigerant-grade (R-134a) is the dominant commercial specification, with purity levels typically meeting AHRI 700 standards for moisture content, acidity, and non-condensable gases.

Commercial specifications

• Refrigerant-grade (R-134a) dominant commercial specification
• Purity typically meets AHRI 700 standards for moisture content, acidity, and non-condensable gases
• Reclaimed and virgin grades available; virgin material required for OEM and aerospace applications