chlorofluorocarbon

Definition

Any of a class of organic compounds in which the hydrogen atoms of a hydrocarbon are replaced with those of chlorine and fluorine; formerly used as refrigerants and aerosol can propellants but withdrawn due to causing damage to the ozone layer.

Etymology

From chloro- + fluorocarbon.

Example Sentences

• "The proposed replacement for CFC-11, a chlorofluorocarbon used to make plastic foam and in central air-conditioning systems, is a compound called HCFC-22. This is a chlorofluorocarbon already in use in home air-conditioners, but it is more expensive than CFC-11 and its potential applications are limited by its inferior characteristics."
• "The Renew is also free of polyvinyl chloride, asbestos, chlorofluorocarbons and halons."