17/05/2025
AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) is a firefighting foam chemical primarily used for extinguishing flammable liquid fires, such as fuel fires. Here's why AFFF is needed:
1. Rapid Fire Suppression
AFFF spreads quickly over the surface of flammable liquids (like gasoline or jet fuel), forming a thin, water-based film.
This film cuts off oxygen to the fire and cools the fuel, effectively smothering the flames very quickly.
2. Prevention of Reignition
The foam film suppresses flammable vapors from the fuel, preventing the fire from reigniting.
This makes AFFF especially useful in situations where the fuel source is still present.
3. Effectiveness on Class B Fires
AFFF is specifically designed for Class B fires (fires involving flammable or combustible liquids).
It is more effective than water or dry chemical extinguishers in such scenarios, particularly in large-scale fuel spills.
4. Use in Critical Environments
AFFF is commonly used in:
Airports
Military bases
Oil refineries
Chemical plants
Aircraft hangars
These environments deal with high fire risks from flammable liquids, where quick control is crucial.
5. Compatibility with Firefighting Systems
AFFF works with a variety of firefighting equipment: sprinkler systems, fire trucks, and portable extinguishers.
It can be applied through hoses or automatic systems, making it versatile.
Note: Environmental Concerns
AFFF often contains PFAS chemicals, which are persistent in the environment and can be harmful. Due to this, newer fluorine-free foams are being developed and used as alternatives in many countries.
Let me know if you’d like a comparison between AFFF and newer, eco-friendly firefighting foams.