Why is cyclopentane becoming the only compliant blowing agent for EU-bound refrigerators?

Why is cyclopentane becoming the only compliant blowing agent for EU-bound refrigerators?
Cyclopentane is consolidating its position as the dominant blowing agent for rigid polyurethane foam, especially in refrigeration. The EU F-Gas regulation bans all fluorinated gases, including HFOs and HCFOs with GWP below 150, in household refrigerators and freezers from January 1, 2026. This makes pure cyclopentane the sole compliant option for manufacturers exporting to Europe. Cyclopentane offers zero ozone depletion potential and a very low global warming potential of around 11, far superior to legacy CFCs and HCFCs. In 2019, the blowing agent segment already held 85.6% of the global cyclopentane market, valued at roughly USD 292.6 million, and was projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 7.59%. Domestic Chinese regulations on HFCs are also tightening, accelerating the switch to cyclopentane systems across local appliance makers.