REFRIGERANT producer Honeywell has appealed against a European Patent Office (EPO) decision to revoke one its patents on HFO-1234yf. The patent covered the use of certain compounds, including 1234yf, as refrigerants in automotive air conditioning systems.
The patent is thought to have been challenged by a number of other refrigerant producers and car manufacturers. The patent will remain in effect, however, during the appeal process.

'We are confident that this patent will be upheld as valid,' commented Honeywell Specialty Materials' director of communication Europe, Middle East, Africa and India Sabine Chmielewski.

'This patent is just one in a strong and growing portfolio of patents Honeywell has related to applications for HFO-1234yf,' she added. 'Having spent significant amount of time and research investment in developing this solution, we intend to continue to vigorously defend our patent portfolio in this area.'

The patent covered the use of certain compounds, including 1234yf, as refrigerants in automotive air conditioning systems. The European Patent Office found that this patent did not meet certain technical requirements of the patenting process.

'We disagree with the European Patent Office's findings and that's why we have appealed this ruling. During the ongoing appeal, the patent will remain in full force during Honeywell's appeal. This is also just one of many patents we own regarding the application of 1234yf and we intend to defend our position.'

The decision taken by the EPO only affects the European Union and does not affect similar patents in Japan, the US and elsewhere.