The expiration of European patent EP2277969B2 — which covered sprayable compositions using HFO-1234ze as a propellant — has contributed to a shift in the supply landscape for the low global warming potential (GWP) propellant used in general industrial aerosol applications, according to Entalpia Europe, based in Łazy, Poland.
According to Entalpia, the patent's conclusion has allowed a broader range of manufacturers using independent production processes to enter the market, increasing competition and supply options for industrial customers transitioning away from higher-GWP propellants. Solstice Advanced Materials has stated that it retains rights to a significant portfolio of patents relating to HFO-1234ze, with expiration dates extending into the 2040s, covering composition, use and process IP.
Entalpia also noted that the change does not affect high-purity grades of HFO-1234ze intended for medical or pharmaceutical use, where regulatory requirements continue to govern sourcing.
Jennifer Fan, global sales director for chemicals at Entalpia Europe, said the company was seeing "a clear acceleration in the adoption of HFO-1234ze across several industrial categories" following the patent expiry.
She added that the broader supplier landscape was translating into improved availability, more resilient supply chains and greater competition, which she said would support the long-term growth of low-GWP propellants in Europe.
Entalpia Europe said it remained committed to supplying HFO-1234ze for industrial applications in compliance with applicable regulations and intellectual property frameworks.
European patent EP2277969B2 expires
