Question
GSHardPrelims 2012Environment & Ecology

Consider the following statements: Chlorofluorocarbons, known as ozone-depleting substances, are used

  1. in the production of plastic foams
  2. in the production of tubeless tyres
  3. in cleaning certain electronic components
  4. as pressurizing agents in aerosol cans

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were extensively used as blowing agents in the manufacture of plastic foams, including expanded polystyrene and polyurethane foams used for thermal insulation and packaging.

Statement 2 is Incorrect: CFCs are not used in the production of tubeless tyres. The manufacturing of tyres involves a process called vulcanization, which uses sulfur to create cross-links between rubber polymers; CFCs have no chemical role in this process.

Statement 3 is Correct: CFCs, particularly CFC-113, were widely used as solvents for cleaning electronic components and circuit boards because they are non-flammable, stable, and leave no residue after evaporation.

Statement 4 is Correct: CFCs were commonly used as propellants or pressurizing agents in aerosol spray cans for products such as hairsprays, deodorants, and insecticides before being phased out under the Montreal Protocol.

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