1. Identification
Product Name: R32 (Refrigerant Gas)
Chemical Name: Difluoromethane
Synonyms: HFC-32, CH₂F₂, Freon 32, Genetron 32
CAS Number: 75-10-5
Supplier: Technochem, Melton, VIC, Australia
Intended Use: Refrigerant and aerosol propellant
Ozone Depletion Potential: Nil
2. Hazard Identification
Hazard Alert Code: EXTREME
Classification: Dangerous goods; non-hazardous substance under NOHSC criteria.
Primary Hazards:
Extremely flammable gas – forms explosive mixtures with air.
Risk of explosion if heated under confinement.
Inhalation may cause respiratory discomfort or dizziness.
Repeated exposure can cause skin dryness or cracking.
Vapors may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or asphyxiation in confined areas
3. Composition / Ingredients
| Component | CAS Number | Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Difluoromethane | 75-10-5 | >99% |
4. First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move person to fresh air. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash with water and soap.
Eye Contact: Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical advice if irritation continues.
Ingestion: Not considered a typical route of exposure.
Physician Notes: Avoid adrenaline use; treat arrhythmias with propranolol or esmolol.
Frostbite should be treated by gentle warming (41–46°C)
5. Fire Fighting Measures
Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, CO₂, or water spray (only if leak can be safely stopped).
Fire Hazards:
Highly flammable; will ignite with heat, sparks, or flame.
Containers may rupture when heated.
Vapors may travel to ignition sources and flash back.
Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen fluoride.
Hazchem Code: 2YE
6. Accidental Release Measures
Evacuate area and ventilate well.
Shut off ignition sources.
Use self-contained breathing apparatus for large releases.
Do not enter confined spaces where gas may accumulate.
Avoid applying direct pressure to leaking valves
7. Handling and Storage
Use only in well-ventilated areas with proper pressure-relief valves.
Do not transfer gas between cylinders.
Avoid static discharge; earth all lines and equipment.
Store cylinders upright, outdoors if possible, in a well-ventilated compound.
Avoid contact with aluminum, magnesium, brass, and steel to prevent reaction.
Protect cylinders from sunlight, heat, and physical damage
8. Exposure Controls / PPE
Respiratory Protection: Type AX filter (AS/NZS 1716 & 1715).
Eye Protection: Safety goggles or chemical-resistant face shield.
Hand Protection: Leather or cloth gloves.
Clothing: Non-static, flame-resistant overalls.
Engineering Controls: Ensure adequate ventilation and use explosion-proof electrical equipment
9. Physical and Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Physical State | Colorless gas |
| Odor | Slightly sweet |
| Boiling Point | -52°C |
| Autoignition Temperature | 648°C |
| Flammability Range | 12.7–33.4% (in air) |
| Vapor Pressure | 1705 kPa @ 25°C |
| Vapor Density (Air=1) | 1.8 |
| Water Solubility | 0.44% @ 25°C |
| Specific Gravity | 34.6 g/L (15°C) |
10. Stability and Reactivity
Stable under normal conditions.
Avoid contact with oxidizing agents and light metals such as magnesium or aluminum.
Decomposition products: CO, CO₂, HF.
Hazardous polymerization: Will not occur
11. Toxicological Information
Inhalation: Can cause dizziness, headache, and narcosis at high concentrations.
Skin/Eye Contact: May cause irritation or frostbite on contact with liquid.
Chronic Effects: Possible accumulation in the body with long-term exposure; may increase risk of cardiac sensitization and organ damage
12. Ecological Information
Ecotoxicity: Low potential for bioaccumulation; high mobility in air.
Environmental Fate: Dissipates quickly into the atmosphere; negligible ozone-depleting potential
13. Disposal Considerations
Evaporate or incinerate residue at an approved site.
Return cylinders to the supplier.
Ensure damaged cylinders are empty and gas-free before disposal
14. Transport Information
| Mode | UN No. | Class | Shipping Name | Hazchem Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Land (ADG) | 3252 | 2.1 | Difluoromethane (Refrigerant Gas R32) | 2YE |
| Air (IATA) | 3252 | 2.1 | Forbidden for passenger aircraft | — |
| Sea (IMDG) | 3252 | 2.1 | Difluoromethane | F-D, S-U |
15. Regulatory Information
Listed in the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS).
Classified under the Australia Customs Regulations – Schedule 15 (HFCs).
Not assigned a Poisons Schedule
16. Summary
R32 (difluoromethane) is a highly flammable refrigerant gas with low toxicity and zero ozone depletion potential.
When handled correctly—using appropriate PPE, ventilation, and fire precautions—it is safe and environmentally preferable to older refrigerants.
However, confined spaces and ignition sources must always be controlled due to its asphyxiation and fire risks.