Chemours has launched two refrigerants aimed at stationary chiller applications: Opteon ZE (R-1234ze(E)) and Opteon 515B (R-515B). The company is pitching both as low-global warming potential (GWP) options for large-scale cooling, including chiller plants supporting AI-driven data centers and other mission-critical environments.
For data center operators, the practical question is less about product branding and more about what constraints a refrigerant introduces—or removes—around efficiency targets, safety classification, and long-term compliance. Chemours is putting two different tradeoffs on the table: an A2L option with ultra-low GWP, and an A1 blend that’s positioned as easier to adopt in conventional chiller designs.
Opteon ZE (R-1234ze(E)) chiller details
Opteon ZE (R-1234ze(E)) is an HFO-based refrigerant with an ultra-low GWP of approximately 1 (AR5), and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP). Chemours lists an ASHRAE A2L classification (mildly flammable) and says it’s suited for air- and water-cooled chillers, commercial air conditioning, heat pumps, and data center cooling. The company also states Opteon ZE is compatible with commonly used polyolester oil (POE) lubricants.
Opteon 515B (R-515B) blend and classification
Opteon 515B (R-515B) is a refrigerant blend consisting of approximately 91.1% R-1234ze(E) and 8.9% R-227ea. It has zero ODP and a GWP of approximately 293 (AR4). Chemours lists an ASHRAE A1 classification (no flame propagation) and frames it as a lower-GWP alternative intended to balance performance and ease of adoption for customers transitioning away from higher-GWP refrigerants in conventional chiller applications.
Joseph Martinko, president of Thermal & Specialized Solutions at Chemours, said, “AI is reshaping the demands placed on cooling infrastructure, and customers need solutions that can keep pace without compromising efficiency, reliability, or long-term regulatory readiness.”
Chemours says Opteon ZE and Opteon 515B are “available now in strategic countries,” with additional market availability expected to follow based on demand.
Source: Chemours
