Are there any restrictions on other HCFC-containing products, such as packaging foams and pressurized containers?
Yes. Under the nonessential products ban, since 1994 most aerosol products, pressurized dispensers, and foam products containing or manufactured with HCFCs are banned from sale and distribution in interstate commerce in the United States. A few products are exempted by EPA regulations and in some cases also are listed as essential medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (21 CFR 2.125(e)). As of January 1, 2010, virgin HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b may only be used to service existing refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, with a few minor exceptions. Thus, HCFC-142b, which prior to January 1, 2010, was primarily used to blow foam, is now limited after that date solely to use as a refrigerant. One exception relevant to equipment manufacturers is that EPA is allowing the continued production and use of thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs) after January 1, 2010, but no later than December 31, 2014, provided that the HCFC-22 was produced prior to January 1, 2010. A similar excep
