The objective is to verify the claimed performance of a more environmentally sustainable fire suppression formulation eliminating fluorinated compounds from firefighting formulations and which can be used with existing delivery methods using both fresh and salt water while still meeting the relevant performance standards of the aqueous film forming foam based materials. By the end of the demonstration(s), the delivered system would be at a technology readiness level of a 7 or 8.

Using an innovative non-fluorinated non-corrosive, high performance, low cost and low toxicity water additive fire suppressant developed by PEG inc of Lancaster Pennsylvania, the U.S. Army US Army Combat Capabilities Development Center (CCDC)-Chem Bio Center (CBC) will attempt to verify the claims regarding the performance of this material via comparable requirements in the Mil-PRF24385F. The material supposedly will reduce the vapor pressure of the fuel such that it cannot continue to burn. As part of the characterization, PEG will make adjustments to concentrations of their additive known as ‘B-136’ in both sea water and fresh water in order to optimize performance. As B-136 is a water additive, there is no need to alter standard application techniques and can use standard firefighting equipment.

If performance claims can be validated, the use of this fuel fire neutralizer will greatly reduce the water usage typically associated with the application of Aqueous Film Forming Foams (AFFFs) and will result in less cleanup. The neutralizer material can be added to existing water spraying systems using fresh or sea water and does not require any change in equipment or methods. The material is pH neutral and non-corrosive and claims no significant toxicological impact to people or environment. Claims include reductions in smoke particulate output and carbon monoxide offgassing and can be used on class A, B and D type fires. Rain and wind do not affect the performance or application of the B-136 to the fire unlike with the AFFFs. Cost should be significantly reduced in comparison to use of the AFFFs due to the smaller amount of material applied to extinguish fires in comparison to the AFFFs.