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Environmental Performance
of AsahiGuard E-SERIES |
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 1) Ozone Layer Depletion Issue
In the past chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's, Freons) were commonly used as refrigerants for air conditioning, precision cleaning agents and aerosol sprays. Halon was a fire extinguishing agent. When Freon and Halon reach the stratosphere, the molecules break down due to UV light and release chlorine and bromine. The catalytic destruction of the ozone molecule by chlorine and bromine leads to ozone layer depletion. Asahi Glass has been developing alternative Fluon products such as HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) which break down prior to reaching the stratosphere and thus minimizes the ozone layer depletion. Asahi Glass has also developed HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) and HFEs (hydrofluroroethers) which do not contain either chlorine or bromine.
2) Global Warming Issue
Chemical compounds (gases) which cause global warming are called greenhouse gases, these include carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane, HFC, PFC (perfluorocarbon) and SF6. Greenhouse gases are subject to the Kyoto Protocol regulations. The greenhouse gas contribution of some Fluon compounds is much less than carbon dioxide. Asahi Glass also recovers and recycles emission gases from their manufacturing operations and this service is also provided to customers. AGC is committed to developing alternative fluorinated products with lower global warming potential.
3) Depletion of Fluorine Resource and Disposal Issue
While fluorine is abundant in the earth's crust, only a limited amount of high purity calcium fluoride exists which is useable by industry.
Asahi Glass minimises land filling fluorinated polymers and uses natural resources effectively. Fluorine gas and polymers are recycled whenever possible.
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COPYRIGHT© 2008 ASAHI GLASS CO.,LTD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. |
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