PartagerEuropean Commission investigates over R1234yf patents
On December 16, 2011, the European Commission (EC) has "opened antitrust proceedings concerning agreements between Honeywell and DuPont" for the development of R1234yf for air-conditioning systems in cars. "
On December 16, 2011, the European Commission (EC) has "opened antitrust proceedings concerning agreements between Honeywell and DuPont" for the development of R1234yf for air-conditioning systems in cars. "
The Commission is investigating complaints alleging that the two companies have entered into anti-competitive arrangements as regards the development of the new generation of refrigerants. Specifically, the Commission will investigate whether joint development, licensing and production arrangements entered into between the two companies in relation to these refrigerants restrict competition on the markets.” The EC said it is also examining the allegation that "Honeywell did not disclose its patents and patent applications while the refrigerant was being assessed and then failed to grant licences on fair and reasonable terms."
Both companies said they were confident that they complied with the law. Rival refrigerant manufacturer Arkema said it had formally complained to the EC in April 2011 over the status of R1234yf patents.
The Commission is investigating complaints alleging that the two companies have entered into anti-competitive arrangements as regards the development of the new generation of refrigerants. Specifically, the Commission will investigate whether joint development, licensing and production arrangements entered into between the two companies in relation to these refrigerants restrict competition on the markets.” The EC said it is also examining the allegation that "Honeywell did not disclose its patents and patent applications while the refrigerant was being assessed and then failed to grant licences on fair and reasonable terms."
Both companies said they were confident that they complied with the law. Rival refrigerant manufacturer Arkema said it had formally complained to the EC in April 2011 over the status of R1234yf patents.