R1234ze Tetrafluoropropene Refrigerant · Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

1.1 Product identifier

1.2 Details of the supplier of the safety data sheet

1.3 Emergency telephone number

National Chemical Emergency Hotline (China): +86-532-83889090 (24 hours)

Supplier Emergency Contact: +86 551 6558 9290

2.1 GHS classification

2.2 GHS label elements

Signal word: Warning

2.3 Other hazards

• Vapor is heavier than air (~3.9 times air density) and may spread long distances along the ground, creating an oxygen-deficient environment in low-lying areas.
• Classified as A2L (low-flammability) refrigerant; difficult to ignite at room temperature. Combustion requires a strong ignition source and concentration within flammability limits (7.0%-11.5% by volume in air).
• Thermal decomposition at high temperatures (>400°C) produces toxic and corrosive gases (hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, carbonyl fluoride, etc.).
• Cylinders may rupture or burst when heated due to increased internal pressure.
• Isomer of R1234yf (trans vs. cis configuration); both share the same molecular formula but differ in spatial arrangement.

3.1 Substance/mixture

This product is a pure substance.

3.2 Composition information

3.3 Impurity information

4.1 Description of necessary first aid measures

General advice: Remove victim from contaminated area immediately. Keep warm and at rest. Show this SDS to attending physician. Eliminate all ignition sources.

Inhalation:

• Move victim to fresh air immediately. Keep airway clear.
• Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
• If not breathing, give artificial respiration (preferably with bag-valve-mask or pocket mask; avoid mouth-to-mouth).
• If no pulse, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately.
• Keep victim warm and at rest. Monitor condition closely.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

Skin contact (frostbite):

• Immediately flush affected area with large amounts of lukewarm water (37–40°C) to promote rewarming.
• Do NOT use hot water (>40°C) or direct heat (e.g., electric heaters).
• Do NOT rub or massage frostbitten area; this may worsen tissue damage.
• Carefully remove frozen clothing. If clothing sticks to skin, do NOT pull it off; cut around it.
• Cover with sterile dressing.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

Eye contact:

• Immediately hold eyelids open and rinse thoroughly with plenty of water or normal saline for at least 15 minutes.
• Ensure complete irrigation of all eye surfaces by lifting upper and lower lids.
• Remove contact lenses if present and easily removable.
• Seek medical attention immediately, preferably from an ophthalmologist.

Ingestion:

Not applicable. This substance is a gas at ambient temperature; ingestion exposure is not expected.

4.2 Most important symptoms and effects, both acute and delayed

• Acute inhalation: dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, ataxia, loss of consciousness, cardiac arrhythmia.
• Skin contact (liquid): frostbite (pale, hard skin, pain, blistering), mild skin irritation.
• Eye contact (liquid): severe frostbite, corneal damage, visual impairment.
• High-concentration exposure can cause central nervous system depression and cardiac sensitization.

4.3 Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed

5.1 Extinguishing media

Suitable extinguishing media: This substance is an A2L (low-flammability) gas and is only combustible under specific conditions. Dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, water fog, and foam are acceptable.

Unsuitable extinguishing media: Avoid direct water jets on leaking gas (may accelerate dispersion and evaporation). Water spray may be used to cool containers.

5.2 Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture

• Thermal decomposition at high temperatures (>400°C) produces toxic and corrosive gases: hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, carbonyl fluoride, etc.
• Cylinders may rupture or burst when heated due to increased internal pressure.
• May react with alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, and aluminum powder under certain conditions.

5.3 Hazardous combustion products

Hydrogen fluoride (HF), carbon monoxide (CO), carbonyl fluoride (COF₂), and other fluorinated compounds.

5.4 Advice for firefighters

• Firefighters must wear positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective fire-resistant clothing.
• If possible, move containers from fire area to a safe location.
• Cool containers with water spray from a safe distance until fire is extinguished.
• Immediately evacuate if containers show discoloration or if pressure relief devices begin to vent.
• Isolate the area; keep unauthorized personnel out.
• For leaking gas fire: do not extinguish unless leak can be stopped safely (P377 principle); shut off gas source first.
• Avoid direct water jets on leaking liquefied gas, as this will accelerate evaporation and dispersion.

6.1 Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures

• Evacuate personnel from the leak area to upwind locations immediately. Establish a perimeter and restrict access.
• Emergency responders should wear SCBA, standard work clothing, cryogenic gloves, and eye protection.
• Enter from upwind direction.
• Eliminate all ignition sources, heat sources, and electrical sparks immediately (P381 principle).
• Stop leak if it can be done safely.
• Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
• Maintain emergency contact personnel for external support.

6.2 Environmental precautions

• Prevent gas from entering sewers, basements, or confined spaces.
• Ventilate the area to accelerate dispersion.
• Minimize releases; recover whenever possible.
• Avoid release to atmosphere, waterways, or soil.

6.3 Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up

• Small leak: Increase ventilation to accelerate gas dispersion. Monitor oxygen levels and combustible gas concentration to prevent asphyxiation and combustion. Eliminate all ignition sources.
• Large leak:
  • Close source valve if safe to do so.
  • Recover using dedicated gas recovery equipment.
  • If recovery is not possible, use water fog/mist to dilute and dissolve gas (prevent water pollution).
  • If cylinder valve cannot be closed, move cylinder to a safe ventilated area and vent slowly; ensure no ignition sources.
• Cylinder leak: Move cylinder to a well-ventilated safe area and vent slowly. If valve cannot be closed, contact supplier for professional handling.

6.4 Reference

See Section 8 (Exposure controls/personal protection) and Section 13 (Disposal considerations).

7.1 Precautions for safe handling

• Handle in closed systems with adequate natural ventilation or local exhaust.
• Personnel must be specially trained and strictly follow operating procedures. Certified personnel only.
• Prevent gas leakage into workplace atmosphere.
• Keep away from fire, heat sources, and open flames. No smoking in work areas. Use explosion-proof ventilation systems and electrical equipment.
• Avoid contact with reactive metals and strong oxidizing agents.
• Handle cylinders carefully; do not drop, slide, roll, or bump cylinders. Use proper lifting equipment.
• Equip area with leak emergency response equipment and combustible gas detectors.
• Wear insulated gloves and eye/face protection when handling liquid to prevent frostbite.
• Prohibit use of equipment and tools that can generate sparks.
• Periodically inspect cylinders, valves, and piping for leaks.

7.2 Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated flammable gas warehouse.
• Storage temperature should not exceed 45°C. Keep away from fire, heat sources, and direct sunlight.
• Store separately from oxidizers and reactive metals. Do not co-store with incompatible materials.
• Storage area should be equipped with leak emergency response equipment and combustible gas detectors.
• Cylinders must be stored upright with valve caps and safety rings in place, properly secured to prevent falling.
• Use explosion-proof lighting and ventilation systems.
• Prohibit use of equipment and tools that can generate sparks.
• Filling coefficient must not exceed 1.1 kg/L.
• Post clear safety warning signs and "Flammable Gas" labels in storage areas.
• Implement two-person receiving/issuing and two-person custody system.

7.3 Specific end uses

For industrial use only. Personnel must be professionally trained. Suitable for commercial refrigeration, chillers, aerosol propellants, foam blowing agents, and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) applications. Do not use for direct food contact, medical inhalation, or other unapproved applications.

8.1 Control parameters

Note: Per GBZ 2.1-2019 (Occupational exposure limits for hazardous agents in the workplace — Part 1: Chemical agents), this substance is not currently listed in the Chinese OEL table. International standards are recommended as reference.

8.2 Exposure monitoring methods

Gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) or mass spectrometry (GC-MS), or infrared gas analyzers and electrochemical sensors for field monitoring.

8.3 Appropriate engineering controls

• Enclosed process design with general ventilation or local exhaust.
• Provide safety shower and eyewash station.
• Install combustible gas detection alarms in areas where large leaks may occur.
• Use explosion-proof electrical equipment.

8.4 Individual protection measures

Respiratory protection:

• Normal conditions (below exposure limit): no special protection required.
• Elevated concentrations: half-face respirator with organic vapor/acid gas cartridge is recommended.
• High concentration or emergency rescue/evacuation: positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) must be worn.

Eye/face protection:

• General handling: no special protection required.
• When handling liquid or potential liquid exposure: chemical safety goggles or face shield must be worn to prevent frostbite.

Skin protection:

• Hand protection: general work gloves for normal handling; cryogenic-insulated gloves (e.g., dry ice gloves, leather cold gloves) for liquid contact.
• Body protection: standard work uniform; cold-resistant clothing for liquid contact.
• Other: no smoking in work areas; avoid high-concentration inhalation; use a buddy system when entering tanks, confined spaces, or other high-concentration areas.

8.5 Hygiene measures

• Remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly after work.
• Maintain good personal hygiene.
• Ensure eyewash and emergency shower are available in the workplace.

9.1 Basic physical and chemical properties

9.2 Thermodynamic properties

9.3 Other safety data

10.1 Reactivity

Chemically stable under normal temperature and pressure conditions; not readily reactive. Not easily ignited under normal operating conditions.

10.2 Chemical stability

Stable under normal conditions of temperature and pressure.

10.3 Possibility of hazardous reactions

• Thermal decomposition at high temperatures (>400°C) produces toxic hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, and carbonyl fluoride.
• May react with alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, and aluminum powder under high temperature or specific conditions.
• May undergo oxidation-reduction reactions with strong oxidizing agents.
• Combustion possible at specific concentrations (7.0%-11.5%) with a strong ignition source.

10.4 Conditions to avoid

High temperature, open flame, direct heat sources, electrical arcs, electrostatic sparks, cylinder overpressure

10.5 Incompatible materials

Reactive metals (sodium, potassium, calcium, aluminum powder, magnesium powder, etc.), strong oxidizing agents

10.6 Hazardous decomposition products

Hydrogen fluoride (HF), carbon monoxide (CO), carbonyl fluoride (COF₂), and other fluorinated compounds

10.7 Hazardous polymerization

Will not occur.

11.1 Information on toxicological effects

Acute toxicity:

11.2 Skin irritation/corrosion

Liquid contact can cause frostbite (physical injury), but chemical irritation is mild. GHS classification: Skin irritation Category 3 (mild irritation, H316).

11.3 Eye irritation/corrosion

Liquid contact can cause severe frostbite and corneal damage. GHS classification: Serious eye damage/eye irritation Category 2B (H320).

11.4 Respiratory or skin sensitization

No sensitization reported. Available animal test data and human epidemiology data show no sensitization effect.

11.5 Germ cell mutagenicity

In vitro and in vivo tests (Ames test, chromosome aberration test, mouse micronucleus test, etc.) show no mutagenic effect.

11.6 Carcinogenicity

Insufficient evidence for carcinogenicity.

• IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer): Not listed
• ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists): Category A4 (Not classifiable as a human carcinogen)
• EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency): Group D (Not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity)

11.7 Reproductive toxicity

Animal studies show no significant reproductive or developmental toxicity at high concentrations. No human reproductive toxicity data available.

11.8 STOT-single exposure

• Narcotic effect (Category 3, H336): Inhalation of high concentrations may cause central nervous system depression, manifested as dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and impaired consciousness.
• Cardiac effects: High-concentration exposure may cause cardiac arrhythmia, especially under stress or exercise (catecholamine sensitization).

11.9 STOT-repeated exposure

Repeated low-concentration exposure shows no significant target organ toxicity. Subchronic inhalation studies showed NOAEL of 80,000 ppm with no clear organ damage.

11.10 Aspiration hazard

Not expected to cause aspiration pneumonia in gaseous form. However, high-concentration inhalation can cause CNS depression and cardiac sensitization.

12.1 Ecotoxicity

12.2 Persistence and degradability

• Atmospheric degradation: Primarily degraded by reaction with hydroxyl radicals (OH·); atmospheric lifetime ~14 days (~2 weeks); rapid degradation.
• Biodegradability: Poorly biodegradable (not readily degraded by microorganisms).
• Hydrolysis: Not readily hydrolyzed at ambient temperature.
• Photodegradation: Rapidly photochemically degraded in the atmosphere.

12.3 Bioaccumulative potential

log P ≈ 1.6. Low bioaccumulation potential (below the bioconcentration threshold of log P = 4.5).

12.4 Mobility in soil

Highly volatile in gaseous form. Low water solubility. High mobility. Volatilizes readily to atmosphere when released to soil.

12.5 Results of PBT and vPvB assessment

Does not meet PBT (persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic) / vPvB (very persistent and very bioaccumulative) criteria. Extremely short atmospheric lifetime (~14 days) means this substance is not persistent.

12.6 Other adverse effects

• Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP): 0 (does not deplete the ozone layer; HFO-class non-ODS substance)
• Global Warming Potential (GWP, 100-year time horizon): <1 (~1, relative to CO₂ = 1); extremely low GWP refrigerant
• Very short atmospheric lifetime (~14 days); negligible impact on global warming; classified as 4th-generation environmentally friendly refrigerant.
• Not a controlled substance under the Montreal Protocol. Due to GWP <1, also not listed as a greenhouse gas under the Kyoto Protocol or Paris Agreement.
• Large releases should still be controlled; recovery and reuse are preferred.

13.1 Waste treatment methods

Product/residues:

• Although GWP is extremely low, direct release to atmosphere is not recommended. Recovery and reuse is preferred.
• Recovery and recycling (purification and reuse) is the preferred approach.
• If recovery is not feasible, dispose of through a licensed hazardous waste treatment facility.
• High-temperature incineration with alkaline scrubber for fluoride removal is an acceptable method.
• Do not discharge to sewers, waterways, or soil.

Contaminated packaging:

• Empty cylinders must be returned to supplier or a qualified facility for disposal. Do not discard or cut empty cylinders.
• Empty cylinders with residual pressure are managed as hazardous waste.

13.2 Special precautions for disposal

• Refer to national and local regulations before disposal (e.g., Solid Waste Pollution Prevention and Control Law, Hazardous Waste Storage Pollution Control Standards, etc.).
• Personnel should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (see Section 8).
• Ensure good ventilation to prevent asphyxiation. Eliminate all ignition sources.
• Disposal must be performed by a qualified and licensed facility.
• Disposal records should be maintained.

14.1 UN number

3161 (flammable liquefied gas, N.O.S.)

14.2 UN proper shipping name

FLAMMABLE LIQUEFIED GAS, N.O.S. (trans-1,3,3,3-Tetrafluoropropene)

14.3 Transport hazard class(es)

Class 2.1 Flammable gas

14.4 Packing group

Not applicable (Class 2 gases are not assigned a packing group)

14.5 Packing mark / Hazard label

• Primary hazard label: Flammable gas (red, Class 2.1)
• Subsidiary hazard label: None

14.6 Methods and materials for containment and packaging

• Seamless steel cylinders. Cylinders must comply with applicable national standards (e.g., GB 5099).
• Common package sizes: 13.6 kg, 100 kg, 400 kg, 800 kg cylinders and ISO tank containers.
• Filling coefficient must not exceed 1.1 kg/L.
• Cylinder valve outlet thread direction: left-hand thread for flammable gases.

14.7 Special requirements for different modes of transport

Road transport:

• Vehicles must have hazardous cargo transport license.
• Cylinders must have valve caps and safety rings in place.
• Cylinders generally laid flat with valves pointing in same direction; do not stack crosswise. Height must not exceed vehicle guardrail.
• Transport during early morning/evening in summer to avoid direct sunlight.
• Follow designated routes; do not stop in residential or densely populated areas.
• Exhaust pipes must be fitted with spark arrestors.

Rail transport:

• Prohibit hump shunting (no free-roll classification).
• Transport in boxcars; cylinders upright or laid flat and secured.

Marine transport (IMDG Code):

• UN 3161, Class 2.1
• Marine pollutant: No
• Stowage category: D (on deck only for flammable gases)

Air transport (ICAO/IATA DGR):

• UN 3161, Class 2.1
• Flammable liquefied gas
• Acceptable on passenger and cargo aircraft (subject to quantity limits and IATA packing requirements)

14.8 Special precautions for user

• Do not co-transport with oxidizers, reactive metals, or food/feed products.
• Vehicles must be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment and leak emergency response gear.
• Transport personnel must be specially trained and certified.
• Protect from sunlight, rain, and high temperature during transit.
• When stopping en route, stay away from fire, heat sources, and high-temperature areas.
• Exhaust pipes of vehicles carrying this product must be fitted with spark arrestors.
• Load and unload carefully to prevent damage to cylinders and fittings.

15.1 Safety, health and environmental regulations/legislation specific for the substance or mixture

International regulations:

• UN GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals): 8th revised edition
• Montreal Protocol: Not a controlled ozone-depleting substance (ODP = 0)
• Kyoto Protocol / Paris Agreement: GWP <1; not listed as a controlled greenhouse gas
• EU REACH Regulation (EC 1907/2006): Registered substance
• EU CLP Regulation (EC 1272/2008): Classification, labelling and packaging regulation
• EU F-Gas Regulation (EC 517/2014): HFO-class refrigerant; GWP <150; not subject to HFC quota restrictions
• US EPA SNAP Program: Approved for various refrigeration applications (commercial refrigeration, chillers, etc.)
• US OSHA HCS 2012: Hazard Communication Standard
• US DOT 49 CFR: Hazardous Materials Transportation Regulations
• ADR/RID: European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road/Rail
• IMDG Code: International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
• IATA DGR: International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations

Chinese regulations:

• Regulation on the Safety Management of Hazardous Chemicals (State Council Decree No. 591)
• Catalog of Hazardous Chemicals (2015 Edition)
• GB 30000 series: Rules for classification and labelling of chemicals
• GB/T 16483-2008: Safety data sheet for chemical products — Content and order of sections
• GBZ 2.1-2019: Occupational exposure limits for hazardous agents in the workplace
• TSG 23-2021: Safety technical regulation for gas cylinders

15.2 Chemical safety assessment

Chemical Safety Assessment has not been carried out for this substance in the context of this SDS. Users should conduct their own assessment based on specific use conditions.

16.1 References

• Honeywell Safety Data Sheet for HFO-1234ze(E)
• Chemours (DuPont) Technical Information for R1234ze
• ASHRAE Handbook - Refrigeration Systems and Applications
• ASHRAE Standard 34-2019: Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants
• GB/T 16483-2008 (Content and order of sections in safety data sheet for chemical products)
• GB 30000 series (Rules for classification and labelling of chemicals)
• United Nations GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals), 8th revised edition
• AIHA (American Industrial Hygiene Association) WEEL Guide
• PubChem Compound Database (CID 53734742)

16.2 Abbreviations

16.3 Disclaimer

This Safety Data Sheet (SDS) has been prepared in accordance with the UN GHS standard and applicable regulatory requirements. The information contained herein is based on publicly available chemical databases, technical literature, and national standards, and is believed to be accurate and complete as of the date of issuance. However, no warranty, express or implied, is made as to the absolute accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information. Users should verify the applicability of the information for their specific use conditions and refer to the official SDS provided by the manufacturer/supplier for compliance purposes. The information in this document may be updated as new research findings and regulatory changes become available; periodic review of the latest version is recommended.