Atmospheric measurements of HCFC-22 at the South Pole

Concern for stratospheric ozone depletion has prompted a phase out in production and use of fully halogenated chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Partially hydrogenated CFCs (HCFCs) are among the compounds used as replacements. HCFCs are preferred to CFCs because model calculations predict that HCFCs will have shorter atmospheric lifetimes and release less reactive chlorine to the stratosphere. The major HCFC in use today is HCFC-22. This study reports the results of measurements of HCFC-22 in air samples collected at the South pole. A mean atmospheric mixing ration of 95 ppt was determined for HCFC-22. 13 refs., 3 figs.