Development of Halogenated Hydrocarbon Foam (HALOFOAM) Extinguishants

摘要

The report describes the results of a study the purpose of which was to develop a foam extinguishing agent which is superior to bromochloromethane (CB). Several aqueous and nonaqueous foams were formulated and tested. A number of halogenated hydrocarbon foams (halofoams) were developed which proved to be more effective than CB in extinguishing Types A, B, AND C fires and which could be used between -65 and 160F. The individual components of these halofoams were chosen so that they were less toxic than CB, with relation to their indicated relative toxicities published for rodent studies in their neat and pyrolized forms. A halofoam consisting of 61.2% (by weight) halon 1211, 6.7% Richamide K-90, 30% anhydrous ethanol, 1.5% fumed silica and 0.3% nitrogen was recommended for further consideration as a possible replacement for CB in portable extinguishers used aboard military aircraft. (Author)