What are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?
CFCs are organic compounds comprising carbon, chlorine, and fluorine, produced as a capricious derivative of methane and ethane and commonly known as freons. A subclass of the CFCs is the hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which include hydrogen in addition commonly they are identified by the DuPont trade name. One of the most recognizable examples is dichlorofluoromethanes (R-12 or Freon-12).
CFCs had been extensively used as refrigerants, propellants, and solvents. The production of CFC compounds is being phased out by the negotiation of the Montreal Protocol since these add to the domination of ozone in the stratosphere. Presently, gases, such as helium, and propane/isobutane mixtures are used as refrigerants.