Arkema files HCFO1233zd(E) patent lawsuit
17th September 2026
JAPAN: French refrigerant manufacturer Arkema has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against HighChem Co, a Tokyo-based Japanese hybrid chemical trading house and manufacturer.
The lawsuit seeks an injunction against the defendant’s import and sale, among other acts, of the low GWP refrigerant and blowing agent HCFO1233zd(E).
Arkema cites two Japanese patents that it holds: 6149000, relating to blowing agents for thermosetting foams such as polyurethane foams, and 6205392, relating to refrigerants.
HighChem sources the 1233zd from Chinese manufacturer Jiangxi Artsen Chemical Co, based in Guixi City. Artsen is thought to hold Chinese patents related to the production of 1233zd using its own proprietary technology.
The 1233zd product page on HighChem’s website has recently been changed to include the note: “Currently, we are refraining from selling to customers who intend to use our products as foaming agents or refrigerants.”
Arkema produces 1233zd at its manufacturing facility in Calvert City, Kentucky, and through a partner facility operated by Chinese manufacturer Shandong Aofan New Material Co.
Although mainly targeted as a low GWP foam blowing agent, 1233zd has also been adopted for use in chillers by a number of major manufacturers.
Arkema maintains that it intends to continue to take appropriate measures, including legal action, to protect its intellectual property rights.
