Azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions containing chlorotrifluoroethylene and / or 1,1,2-trifluoroethane

Abstract

The present invention relates to an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising chlorotrifluoroethylene and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane and mixtures of the two. The present invention also relates to an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane and mixtures of the two.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions comprising chlorotrifluoroethylene and / or 1,1,2-trifluoroethane. These compositions may originate from intermediate compositions during the production of trifluoroethylene, more specifically from recycle streams used during the production of trifluoroethylene. [Background technology]

[0002] Fluorinated olefins such as VF3 are known and have been used as monomers or comonomers for the preparation of fluorocarbon polymers which exhibit remarkable properties, particularly excellent chemical resistance and good heat resistance.

[0003] Known routes for the preparation of trifluoroethylene use as starting materials chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) and hydrogen in the gas phase in the presence of a catalyst. In particular, from WO 2013 / 128102, a process for the preparation of trifluoroethylene by hydrogenolysis of CTFE in the gas phase in the presence of a Group VIII metal-based catalyst at atmospheric pressure and at relatively low temperatures is known.

[0004] The production of trifluoroethylene is accompanied by a number of by-products that have boiling points close to trifluoroethylene or close to chlorotrifluoroethylene. This requires the implementation of complex purification steps, which may result in the loss of the desired product. In addition, some of these by-products may form azeotropic compositions, which makes separation difficult or even impossible in practice. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to surprisingly identified azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions. In particular, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising chlorotrifluoroethylene and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane and mixtures of the two, characterized in that the composition contains at least 50% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0006] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition also comprises at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises up to 20% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises up to 50% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0010] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane and mixtures of the two.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition has a boiling point between -10°C and 70°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises between 35% and 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises up to 65% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane or up to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] The change in bubble point and dew point for the CTFE / 143 binary mixture is shown as a function of the CTFE weight content at a given pressure. [Diagram 2] The change in bubble point and dew point for the CTFE / 152a binary mixtures is shown as a function of the CTFE weight content at a given pressure. [Diagram 3] For a 143 / 133b binary mixture, the change in bubble point and dew point is shown as a function of the weight content of 143 at a given pressure. [Figure 4] For a 143 / 133a binary mixture, the change in bubble point and dew point is shown as a function of the weight content of 143 at a given pressure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The present invention relates to azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions. The expression "quasi-azeotropic" is intended to have a broad meaning and include compositions that are strictly azeotropic as well as compositions that behave like azeotropes.

[0016] The volatility of compound A is determined by the liquid phase mole fraction (x A ) to the gas phase mole fraction (y A ) is expressed by the ratio: α = y A / x AThe volatility of compound B is determined by the liquid phase mole fraction (x) under equilibrium conditions (equilibrium pressure and temperature). B ) to the gas phase mole fraction (y B ) is expressed by the ratio: α = y B / x B Relative volatility measures the ease of separation of two compounds A and B. It is the ratio of the volatilities of the two compounds: α A,B =y A x B / x A y B The higher the volatility, the easier it is to separate the mixture.

[0017] For the purposes of the present invention, a composition is considered to be azeotropic if the relative volatility between the two compounds is equal to 1 or between 0.99 and 1.01. For the purposes of the present invention, a composition is considered to be near-azeotropic if the relative volatility between the two compounds is between 0.9 and 1.1.

[0018] It has been surprisingly discovered that during the process for the manufacture of trifluoroethylene, azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions are formed, the presence of which affects the entire process, particularly the purification and recycling steps.

[0019] A) Composition containing chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) According to a first aspect, the present invention provides an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising chlorotrifluoroethylene, preferably comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane (143), 1,1-difluoroethane (152a) and mixtures of the two.

[0020] The azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may also include at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0021] Thus, the composition comprises: a) chlorotrifluoroethylene; b) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, and mixtures of the two; and c) optionally, at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane; may include.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise chlorotrifluoroethylene, 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0023] Alternatively, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise chlorotrifluoroethylene, 1,1-difluoroethane, and at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0024] Alternatively, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, and 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0025] Preferably, said composition has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C, more preferentially between -35°C and 25°C. In particular, said composition has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. More particularly, said composition has a boiling point between -35°C and 25°C at a pressure between 1 bara and 6 bara.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises at least 50% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene based on the total weight of the composition.Preferably, the composition comprises at least 52% by weight, or at least 54% by weight, or at least 56% by weight, or at least 58% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 62% by weight, or at least 64% by weight, or at least 66% by weight, or at least 68% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 72% by weight, or at least 74% by weight, or at least 76% by weight, or at least 78% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 82% by weight, or at least 84% by weight, or at least 86% by weight, or at least 88% by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 92% by weight, or at least 94% by weight, or at least 96% by weight, or at least 98% by weight, or at least 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene based on the total weight of the composition.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises up to 20% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises up to 18% by weight, or up to 16% by weight, or up to 14% by weight, or up to 12% by weight, or up to 10% by weight, or up to 8% by weight, or up to 6% by weight, or up to 4% by weight, or up to 2% by weight, or up to 0.01% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises up to 50% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises up to 48% by weight, or up to 46% by weight, or up to 44% by weight, or up to 42% by weight, or up to 40% by weight, or up to 38% by weight, or up to 36% by weight, or up to 34% by weight, or up to 32% by weight, or up to 30% by weight, or up to 28% by weight, or up to 26% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0029] As mentioned above, the composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane. Thus, the composition may comprise at least two, or at least three, or at least four, or at least five, or at least six, or at least seven, or at least eight, or at least nine, or at least ten, or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises less than 10% by weight of said additional compound, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises less than 8% by weight, or less than 6% by weight, or less than 4% by weight, or less than 2% by weight, or less than 1% by weight, or less than 0.5% by weight, or less than 0.1% by weight, or less than 0.05% by weight, or less than 0.01% by weight of said additional compound, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0031] Ai) Compositions based on CTFE and 143 According to a particular embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises chlorotrifluoroethylene and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane.

[0032] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 80% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 85% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 90% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0033] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 20% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 15% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 10% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0034] Preferably, said composition has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C, more preferentially between -35°C and 25°C. In particular, said composition has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. More particularly, said composition has a boiling point between -35°C and 25°C at a pressure between 1 bara and 6 bara.

[0035] Thus, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 80% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 20% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between −40° C. and 40° C. at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. Advantageously, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 85% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 15% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition; and has a boiling point between −40° C. and 40° C. at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. More specifically, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 90% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 10% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between -30°C and 25°C at a pressure of 1 bara to 6 bara.

[0036] Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 90% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 10% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between 20°C and 25°C at a pressure of 6 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 92% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between 12°C and 17°C at a pressure of 5 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 92% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between 5°C and 10°C at a pressure of 4 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 94% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between -3°C and 2°C at a pressure of 3 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 96% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 4% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between -15°C and -10°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 98% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 2% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between -30°C and -25°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara; comprising, and preferably consisting of, 98% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 2% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between -30°C and -25°C at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0037] In an advantageously preferred form, the composition may also comprise 1,1-difluoroethane or an additional compound as defined above in this patent application, and if so, the composition may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane.

[0038] Thus, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, from 90% by weight to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, from 0.01% by weight to 10% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 20° C. and 25° C. at a pressure of 6 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 92% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, the remainder being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 12°C and 17°C at a pressure of 5 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 92% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 5°C and 10°C at a pressure of 4 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 94% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between -3°C and 2°C at a pressure of 3 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 96% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 4% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between -15°C and -10°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 98% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 2% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, the remainder being selected from the group consisting of: - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 98% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 2% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, and said composition has a boiling point between -30°C and -25°C at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0039] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 92% to 93% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 7% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 21° C. to 22° C. at a pressure of 6 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 92% to 93% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 7% to 8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 21° C. to 22° C. at a pressure of 6 bara. In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 92.5% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 7.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 21.3° C. at a pressure of 6 bara.

[0040] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 93% to 94% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 6% to 7% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 15° C. to 16° C. at a pressure of 5 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 93% to 94% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 6% to 7% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 15° C. to 16° C. at a pressure of 5 bara. In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 93.4% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 6.6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 15.2° C. at a pressure of 5 bara.

[0041] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 94% to 95% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 5% to 6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 8° C. to 9° C. at a pressure of 4 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 94% to 95% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 5% to 6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 8° C. to 9° C. at a pressure of 4 bara. In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 94.4% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 5.6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 8.1° C. at a pressure of 4 bara.

[0042] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 95% to 96% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 4% to 5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -1°C to 0°C at a pressure of 3 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 95% to 96% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 4% to 5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -1°C to 0°C at a pressure of 3 bara. In particular, said azeotropic composition consists of 95.7% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 4.3% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of −0.5° C. at a pressure of 3 bara.

[0043] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 97% to 98% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 2% to 3% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -12°C to -11°C at a pressure of 2 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 97% to 98% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 3% to 4% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -12°C to -11°C at a pressure of 2 bara. In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 97.4% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 2.6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of −11.7° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0044] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 99.5% to 99.99% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.01% to 0.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -28°C to -29°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara. Preferably, said azeotropic composition comprises, and more preferentially consists of, 99.5% to 99.9% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 0.01% to 0.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1-difluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -28°C to -29°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara. In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 99.98% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 0.02% by weight 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -28.4°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara.

[0045] FIG. 1 shows the change in bubble point and dew point for chlorotrifluoroethylene / 1,1,2-trifluoroethane binary mixtures as a function of the chlorotrifluoroethylene weight content at pressures from 1 to 6 bara.

[0046] A-ii) Compositions based on CTFE and 152a According to another particular embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises chlorotrifluoroethylene and 1,1-difluoroethane.

[0047] Advantageously, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 60% to 80% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 63% to 77% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0048] Advantageously, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 20% to 40% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 23% to 37% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0049] Preferably, said composition has a boiling point between −40° C. and 30° C., more preferentially between −35° C. and 16° C. In particular, said composition has a boiling point between −40° C. and 30° C. at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. More particularly, said composition has a boiling point between −35° C. and 16° C. at a pressure between 1 bara and 6 bara.

[0050] Thus, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 60% to 80% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 20% to 40% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and have a boiling point between -40°C and 30°C at a pressure of 0.5 bara to 8 bara. Advantageously, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 63% to 77% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 23% to 37% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and have a boiling point between -40°C and 30°C at a pressure of 0.5 bara to 8 bara. More specifically, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and have a boiling point between -35°C and 16°C at a pressure of 1 bara to 6 bara.

[0051] Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point between 14°C and 17°C at a pressure of 6 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane and having a boiling point between 7°C and 11°C at a pressure of 5 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, and having a boiling point between 0°C and 4°C at a pressure of 4 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane and having a boiling point between -8°C and -4°C at a pressure of 3 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, and having a boiling point between -15°C and -19°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 68% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 26% to 32% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane and having a boiling point between -32°C and -36°C at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0052] In an advantageously preferred form, the composition may also comprise 1,1,2-trifluoroethane or an additional compound as defined above in this patent application, and if so, the composition may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane.

[0053] Thus, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 14°C and 17°C at a pressure of 6 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 7°C and 11°C at a pressure of 5 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between 0°C and 4°C at a pressure of 4 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between -8°C and -4°C at a pressure of 3 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 66% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 34% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point between -15°C and -19°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - 68% to 74% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 26% to 32% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and the composition has a boiling point between -32°C and -36°C at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0054] More preferably, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 69% to 70% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30% to 31% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, said composition having a boiling point of -35°C to 16°C at a pressure of 1 to 6 bara. In a preferentially preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 69% to 70% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene, 30% to 31% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, and optionally the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane and 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of -35°C to 16°C at a pressure of 1 to 6 bara.

[0055] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.1% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.9% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of 15.3° C. at 6 bara.

[0056] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.2% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.8% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of 9.2° C. at 5 bara.

[0057] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.3% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.7% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of 2.2° C. at 4 bara.

[0058] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.4% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.6% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of -6.2°C at 3 bara.

[0059] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.5% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.5% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of −17.2° C. at 2 bara.

[0060] In particular, the azeotropic composition consists of 69.7% by weight chlorotrifluoroethylene and 30.3% by weight 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of −33.7° C. at 1 bara.

[0061] FIG. 2 shows the change in bubble point and dew point for chlorotrifluoroethylene / 1,1-difluoroethane binary mixtures as a function of the chlorotrifluoroethylene weight content at pressures from 1 to 6 bara.

[0062] The existence of azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions as defined in this invention is confirmed by the data obtained from Figures 1 and 2. The relative volatility of each composition shown in Figures 1 and 2 was calculated in liquid-vapor equilibrium.

[0063] B) Composition containing 1,1,2-trifluoroethane (143) According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, preferably comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane (133a), 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane (133b) and a mixture of the two.

[0064] According to a particular embodiment, the composition may also comprise at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0065] Thus, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is a) 1,1,2-trifluoroethane; b) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane (133a), 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane (133b) and a mixture of the two; and c) optionally, at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane; may include.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0067] Alternatively, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0068] Alternatively, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition may comprise 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0069] Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions have a boiling point between -10°C and 70°C. In particular, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions have a boiling point between -10°C and 70°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara. More particularly, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions have a boiling point between 0°C and 65°C at a pressure between 1 and 6 bara.

[0070] According to a particular embodiment, the composition comprises at least 30% by weight, advantageously at least 32% by weight, preferably at least 34% by weight, in particular at least 36% by weight and more particularly at least 38% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0071] According to a particular embodiment, the composition comprises at most 46% by weight, advantageously at most 44% by weight, preferably at most 42% by weight, in particular at most 40% by weight and more particularly at most 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0072] According to a particular embodiment, the composition comprises at most 66% by weight, advantageously at most 65% by weight, preferably at most 64% by weight, in particular at most 63% by weight and more particularly at most 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0073] As mentioned above, the composition according to the present invention may comprise at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane. Thus, the composition may comprise at least two, or at least three, or at least four, or at least five, or at least six, or at least seven, or at least eight, or at least nine, or at least ten, or at least eleven, or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises less than 10% by weight of said additional compound, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises less than 8% by weight, or less than 6% by weight, or less than 4% by weight, or less than 2% by weight, or less than 1% by weight, or less than 0.5% by weight, or less than 0.1% by weight, or less than 0.05% by weight, or less than 0.01% by weight of said additional compound, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0075] Compositions based on Bi)143 and 133b According to a particular embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane.

[0076] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 55% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 60% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 62% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0077] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 45% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 40% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0078] Preferably, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C., more preferentially between 0° C. and 35° C. In particular, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C. at a pressure between 1 bara and 3 bara. More particularly, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 35° C. at a pressure between 1 bara and 3 bara.

[0079] More preferentially, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises from 60% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and from 0.01% to 40% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C. at a pressure of 1 to 3 bara.

[0080] In particular, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 62% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between 0° C. and 35° C. at a pressure of 1 to 3 bara.

[0081] Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 62% to 84% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 16% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 2°C to 6°C at a pressure of 1 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 62% to 84% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 16% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 2°C to 6°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 74% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 26% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 20°C to 24°C at a pressure of 2 bara; comprising, and preferably consisting of, 88% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 12% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 31° C. to 35° C. at a pressure of 3 bara.

[0082] In an advantageously preferred form, the composition may also comprise 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane or an additional compound as defined above according to the second aspect of the invention, and if so, the composition may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0083] The azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition also comprises - comprising, and preferably consisting of, from 62% to 84% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, from 16% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, the composition having a boiling point of from 2°C to 6°C at a pressure of 1 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, from 62% to 84% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, from 16% to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, the composition having a boiling point of from 2°C to 6°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, from 74% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, from 0.01% to 26% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and the remaining components being optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, the composition having a boiling point of from 20°C to 24°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - may comprise, and preferably consist of, from 88% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, from 0.01% to 12% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and optionally the remainder being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and the composition has a boiling point of from 31 ° C to 35 ° C at a pressure of 3 bara.

[0084] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 71% to 72% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 28% to 29% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 3° C. to 4° C. at a pressure of 1 bara, or 4° C. to 5° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara.

[0085] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 71% to 72% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 28% to 29% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and having a boiling point of 3° C. to 4° C. at a pressure of 1 bara, or 4° C. to 5° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0086] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 71.6% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 28.4% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 3.9° C. at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0087] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 71.8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 28.2% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 4.2° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara.

[0088] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention also provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 88.5% to 89.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 10.5% to 11.5% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 21° C. to 23° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0089] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention also provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 88.5% to 89.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 10.5% to 11.5% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and having a boiling point of 21° C. to 23° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0090] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 88.8% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 10.2% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 21.8° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0091] FIG. 3 shows the change in bubble point and dew point for 1,1,2-trifluoroethane / 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane binary mixtures as a function of the weight content of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane at pressures from 1 to 6 bara.

[0092] B-ii) Compositions based on 143 and 133a According to another particular embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane.

[0093] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 30% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 35% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 38% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0094] Advantageously, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 70% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 65% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. In particular, the composition comprises from 0.01% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0095] Preferably, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C., more preferentially between 0° C. and 35° C. In particular, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C. at a pressure between 1 bara and 3 bara. More particularly, said composition has a boiling point between 0° C. and 35° C. at a pressure between 1 bara and 3 bara.

[0096] According to a preferred embodiment, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 35% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 65% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 35% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 65% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between 0° C. and 40° C. at a pressure of 1 to 3 bara.

[0097] According to a particular embodiment, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 38% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprises 38% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point between 0° C. and 35° C. at a pressure of 1 to 3 bara.

[0098] Preferably, the azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition is - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 38% to 66% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 34% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 0° C. to 5° C. at a pressure of 1 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 38% to 66% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 34% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 0°C to 5°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 50% to 94% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 6% to 50% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 18°C ​​to 23°C at a pressure of 2 bara; comprising, and preferably consisting of, 72% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 0.01% to 28% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 31° C. to 35° C. at a pressure of 3 bara.

[0099] In an advantageously preferred form, the composition may also comprise 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane or an additional compound as defined above according to the second aspect of the invention, and if so, the composition may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or all of the additional compounds selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

[0100] The azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition also comprises - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 38% to 66% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 34% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 0°C to 5°C at a pressure of 1 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 38% to 66% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 34% to 62% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 0°C to 5°C at a pressure of 1.013 bara; - comprising, and preferably consisting of, 50% to 94% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 6% to 50% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, said composition having a boiling point of 18°C ​​to 23°C at a pressure of 2 bara; - may comprise, and preferably consist of, from 72% to 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, from 0.01% to 28% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and optionally the remainder being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and the composition has a boiling point of from 31 ° C to 35 ° C at a pressure of 3 bara.

[0101] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 50.5% to 51.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 48.5% to 49.5% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 2.5° C. to 3.5° C. at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0102] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 50.5% to 51.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 48.5% to 49.5% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 2.5° C. to 3.5° C. at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0103] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 50.9% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 49.1% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 2.7° C. at a pressure of 1 bara.

[0104] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 51% to 52% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 48% to 49% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 2.5° C. to 3.5° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara.

[0105] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 51% to 52% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 48% to 49% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and having a boiling point of 2.5° C. to 3.5° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0106] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 51.2% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 48.8% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 3.1° C. at a pressure of 1.013 bara.

[0107] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 72.5% to 73.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 26.5% to 27.5% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and having a boiling point of 21° C. to 22° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0108] In a particularly preferred form, the present invention provides an azeotropic composition comprising, and preferably consisting of, 72.5% to 73.5% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 26.5% to 27.5% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and having a boiling point of 21° C. to 22° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0109] More particularly preferably, said azeotropic composition consists of 73% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 27% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of said composition, and has a boiling point of 21.5° C. at a pressure of 2 bara.

[0110] FIG. 4 shows the change in bubble point and dew point for 1,1,2-trifluoroethane / 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane binary mixtures as a function of the weight content of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane at pressures from 1 to 6 bara.

[0111] The existence of azeotropic or near-azeotropic compositions as defined in this invention is confirmed by the data obtained from Figures 3 and 4. The relative volatility of each composition shown in Figures 3 and 4 was calculated from the liquid-vapor equilibrium.

[0112] According to another preferred embodiment, the near-azeotropic composition comprises, preferably consists of, 0.01% to 0.06% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 99.94% to 99.99% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, the near-azeotropic composition comprises, preferably consists of, 0.01% to 0.06% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and 99.94% to 99.99% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition, and has a boiling point of 62° C. to 66° C. at a pressure of 6 bara. In particular, the near-azeotropic composition comprises, and preferably consists of, 0.01% to 0.06% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 99.94% to 99.99% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and has a boiling point of 62° C. to 66° C. at a pressure of 6 bara. More specifically, the near-azeotropic composition comprises, and preferably consists of, 0.01% to 0.06% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 99.94% to 99.99% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and optionally, the remaining components being at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, chlorotrifluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene, and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, and has a boiling point of 63.5° C. to 64° C. at a pressure of 6 bara.

Claims

1. An azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising chlorotrifluoroethylene and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethane and mixtures of the two thereof, the composition comprising at least 50% by weight of chlorotrifluoroethylene based on the total weight of the composition.

2. 2. The composition according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a boiling point between -40°C and 40°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara.

3. 2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising at least one additional compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane, trifluoroethylene, HF, HCl, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1-difluoroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane.

4. 2. The composition of claim 1, comprising up to 20% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

5. 2. The composition of claim 1, comprising up to 50% by weight of 1,1-difluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

6. An azeotropic or near-azeotropic composition comprising 1,1,2-trifluoroethane and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane and a mixture of the two.

7. 7. A composition according to claim 6, characterized in that it has a boiling point between -10°C and 70°C at a pressure between 0.5 bara and 8 bara.

8. 7. The composition of claim 6, comprising between 35% and 99.99% by weight of 1,1,2-trifluoroethane, based on the total weight of the composition.

9. 7. The composition according to claim 6, characterized in that it contains up to 65% by weight of 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane or up to 38% by weight of 1-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane.

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