Homonym: R-12 (Refrigerant)
R-12, also known as dichlorodifluoromethane, is a type of refrigerant that was widely used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It belongs to a class of chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are known for their ability to cool effectively. However, R-12 has been phased out in many countries due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer.
The production and use of R-12 were largely banned under the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty aimed at protecting the ozone layer. Alternatives, such as R-134a and R-410A, have been developed to replace R-12 in various applications, providing safer options for cooling without depleting the ozone.