Our statement on concerns about the use of HFO (hydrofluoroolefins) in insulated pipe systems and their impact on health and the environment.
In general, BRUGG Pipes strives to ensure that our products have no negative impact on the environment or health. We are convinced that HFOs currently represent the best and most sustainable solution for insulating pipe systems due to their technical advantages and safety. HFOs, which are used as blowing agents in polyurethane foams, are non-flammable, non-toxic and, compared to alternatives such as cyclopentane, offer the great advantage of the world's best insulation value and therefore the greatest energy savings for use in both local and district heating pipe systems. Unlike PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances), HFOs are chemically unstable and not persistent in the environment because they break down quickly when exposed to sunlight.
- HFOs contain a chemical double bond in the molecule
- HFOs are not persistent
- HFOs break down in air within a few days
- HFOs are not bioaccumulative
- HFOs are non-toxic
- HFOs have no ozone depleting potential
Despite the reclassification of HFOs as PFAS by the OECD in 2021, there are currently no EU restrictions on their use. We emphasize that due to the volatile nature of HFOs, no significant environmental impact is expected, particularly in groundwater.