Which type of refrigerant is considered a transitional substance between HCFCs and HFCs?

The transitional substance between HCFCs (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) and HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons) is accurately identified as HCFCs. HCFCs are being phased out due to their ozone-depleting potential, reflecting a critical bridge from CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons) to more environmentally friendly alternatives like HFCs. While HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer, they are greenhouse gases and are approaching regulatory scrutiny under environmental agreements like the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

CFCs are not a transitional substance since they are being phased out completely due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer. HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins) are emerging as a more eco-friendly alternative but they are not classified between HCFCs and HFCs; they are a newer generation of refrigerants designed to have lower global warming potential. Identifying HCFCs as the transitional substance highlights their role in the shift toward more sustainable refrigerant options while addressing both global warming potential and ozone depletion concerns.