The objective of this Statement of Need was to develop an alternative formulation for use in Department of Defense Class B (flammable liquid) fire-suppression operations in lieu of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) in accordance with Interim Amendment 3 of MIL-F- 24385F. Specific research areas of interest included:

• Development of fluorine-free drop-in replacements for existing applications of AFFF. Drop in replacements would need to meet the performance requirements of MIL-F- 24385F at MILSPEC application rates. Formulations that cannot meet the sections below are not disqualified.:
  • Section 3.3.1: Film Formation and Sealability (applicable to low expansion fluorine-free foams)
  • Section 3.3.3: Compatibility with fluorinated AFFF.
• Development of low expansion fluorine-free foams for applications other than drop-in replacements; alternative delivery methods should be specified.
• Development of novel extinguishing agents and approaches.

Proposed solutions that can act as a drop-in replacement that can be employed with a minimum of modification to currently used agent storage and delivery configurations (ship, facility, and fire apparatus) are especially desirable and will be given preferential consideration. Proposals should include an initial assessment of the human health and environmental impacts of proposed ingredients, formulations, and byproducts. Proposers should show clear understanding of past research efforts in this area to avoid duplication of prior work.

Funded projects will appear below as project overviews are posted to the website.