SERDP FY 2024 New Start Projects

 Environmental Restoration (ER) Program Area

The objective of this Statement of Need (SON) was to identify and develop PFAS-free firefighting formulations that approach the performance characteristics detailed in the latest revision of MIL-PRF-24385 and can enhance fire-suppression performance across multiple scenarios. Specifically, the goal was to address the development of a PFAS-free firefighting formulation that is effective under one or more of the following scenarios:

  • Firefighting operations at extreme temperatures (as low as 32 degrees F and up to 125 degrees F);
  • Firefighting operations involving various fuels to include Jet A and ethanol-free gasoline (threshold) and optimally, superior performance against mixtures of Jet A, ethanol-free gasoline, and polar solvents;
  • Improved burnback resistance and vapor suppression (similar to MIL-PRF-24385);
  • Increased fire extinguishing capability at low aspiration and expansion rates (similar to MIL-PRF-24385);
  • Improved spreading coefficients that approach or exceed legacy AFFFs (similar to MIL-PRF-24385);
  • Allow for use of concentrate in stored, premixed solutions (e.g. portable extinguishers);
  • Provide concentrates that are compatible and can be mixed in tanks with other MILSPEC PFAS-free formulations.

Additionally, projects selected address storability and compatibility with DoD equipment, particularly the following issues were of interest:

  • Identify, develop, and deploy functional additives and/or modifications of existing fire-fighting equipment to enhance the fire-suppression performance of mature and emerging PFAS-free fire suppressants. 
  • Determine the impact of gaseous fuel transport through the foam blanket.
  • Develop alternative foam production methodologies that are compatible with current fire trucks and infrastructure in support of increased performance. 

The projects listed below were selected to address the objectives of this SON. Additional information on individual projects can be found by clicking the project title.