This book describes fluorocarbons gases’ preparation process, properties, applications and their evolution over time. The impact of fluorocarbons on the ozone layer and global and the development to mitigate those effects have been specially emphasized. The first major industrial fluorinated compound was developed in the 1920’s, to replace ammonia and sulfur dioxide refrigerants, at the General Motors Frigidaire Division by Thomas Midgley, Jr. and Albert Leon Henne. They developed a family of fluorocarbons trademarked Freon® for auto air conditioning units revolutionizing the auto industry. Other applications were developed over time including fire extinguishers, propellants, blowing agents, cleaners, anesthesia, artificial blood and others impacting every facet of life. In spite of being in broad global use for nearly a century, fluorocarbon gases have gone through great evolution during the last few decades. In the 1980s it was discovered chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gases are harmful to the ozone layer, mainly because of their chlorine content. Chlorine was released in the upper atmosphere when chlorofluorocarbon molecules were broken down by the high energy cosmic radiation. CFCs were progressively banned following the Montreal Protocol of 1987. CFCs were replaced by fluorinated gases containing either less chlorine (hydrofluoro-chlorocarbons, or HCFCs), which are much less damaging (about 90% less) to the ozone layer or with fluorinated gases containing no chlorine, i.e. hydrofluorocarbons or HFCs. HFC have no impact on the ozone layer but impact global warming detrimentally. HFCs are usable without need for changes to the existing refrigeration or air conditioning installations. More recently hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), which have little or no negative impact on global warming, have been developed to replace or reduce the use of HFCs. HFOs are used as single compounds or in blends. Research and development continues to develop and replace the HCFCs and HFCs completely with environmentally friendly products. Concise Handbook of Fluorocarbon Gases presents a reference and text for the commercial fluorocarbon gases which have great many application in a wide range of industries such as refrigeration and air conditioning, as well as consumer products.

This is a shortened version of the three volume Walford's Guide to Reference Material, 5th edition: Volume 1, Science and Technology (1989), Volume 2, Social and historical sciences, philosophy and religion (1990), and Volume 3, Generalia, language and literature, the arts (1991). There are more than 3,000 entries, forming an updated compilation of what are considered to be the basic items in the main volumes, plus some more recent material up to April 1992.

Plastics Materials and Processes: A Concise Encyclopedia is a resource for anyone with an interest in plastic materials and processes, from seasoned professionals to laypeople. Arranged in alphabetical order, it clearly explains all of the materials and processes as well as their major application areas and usages. Plastics Materials and Processes: A Concise Encyclopedia: Discusses and describes applications and practical uses of the materials and processes. Clear definitions and sufficient depth to satisfy the information seekers needs

Summarizes core information for quick reference in the workplace, using tables and checklists wherever possible. Essential reading for safety officers, company managers, engineers, transport personnel, waste disposal personnel, environmental health officers, trainees on industrial training courses and engineering students. This book provides concise and clear explanation and look-up data on properties, exposure limits, flashpoints, monitoring techniques, personal protection and a host of other parameters and requirements relating to compliance with designated safe practice, control of hazards to people's health and limitation of impact on the environment. The book caters for the multitude of companies, officials and public and private employees who must comply with the regulations governing the use, storage, handling, transport and disposal of hazardous substances. Reference is made throughout to source documents and standards, and a Bibliography provides guidance to sources of wider ranging and more specialized information. Dr Phillip Carson is Safety Liaison and QA Manager at the Unilever Research Laboratory at Port Sunlight. He is a member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, of the Institution of Chemical Engineers' Loss Prevention Panel and of the Chemical Industries Association's `Exposure Limits Task Force' and `Health Advisory Group'. Dr Clive Mumford is a Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at the University of Aston and a consultant. He lectures on several courses of the Certificate and Diploma of the National Examining Board in Occupational Safety and Health. [Given 5 star rating] - Occupational Safety & Health, July 1994 - Loss Prevention Bulletin, April 1994 - Journal of Hazardous Materials, November 1994 - Process Safety & Environmental Prot., November 1994