CFC to HCFC to HFC to HFE? Worsening a fingermark developer for a better environment.
It all started with Arklone (CFC-113): the 70’s ‘solvent of the future’. It was the perfect solvent for iodine α-naphthoflavone fingerprint development, being relatively non-toxic, non-flammable, and suited to delivering reagents to fingerprints without damaging surfaces, causing the people to rejoice. But then came the 1989 Montreal protocol banning CFCs, ruining the party. But no matter! Asahiklin AK225 (HCFC-225) was just about as good, so the people again rejoiced. Then came the 1997 Montreal Amendment to the Montreal protocol, and by 2015, HCFCs were subject to banishment. But the people were wily, and they had a final gambit: HFC-4310mee. Sure, they’d be worse off again, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Then, in 2018, a shadow fell across the land: the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment announced a phase-down of HFC solvents, with a full phase-out to follow. Will this spell the end for iodine α-naphthoflavone fingerprint development once and for all?
About School research seminars
Seminars cover all aspects of chemistry and molecular biosciences and are delivered by visiting national and international academics. PhD completion seminars are also incorporated into the program.
Seminars are usually held in person and via zoom. All are welcome to attend.
Contacts
- Chemistry: Dr Rowan Young, Dr David Cantillo
- Molecular Biosciences: Dr Mathew Jones