AFFF and Its Role in Controlling Fires
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a highly effective firefighting foam designed to combat fires fueled by flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, and jet fuel. Developed in the 1960s, AFFF works by forming a thin film over burning liquids, cutting off oxygen and suppressing heat to prevent re-ignition. It has been widely used in high-risk industries, including military operations, aviation, and oil refineries.
While AFFF has been instrumental in saving lives and controlling dangerous fires, it contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals."
PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and linked to serious health risks, including kidney, liver, and testicular cancers, as well as thyroid disorders. When AFFF is used, PFAS can contaminate soil and groundwater, posing long-term environmental and public health concerns.
Efforts are underway to phase out PFAS-based AFFF and replace it with safer, fluorine-free alternatives. However, the legacy of contamination has sparked lawsuits against manufacturers, seeking accountability for health and environmental damages caused by AFFF.
How Does AFFF Work?
AFFF works by forming a thin aqueous film over the surface of a flammable liquid fire. This film blocks oxygen from feeding the fire, effectively suffocating it. The foam also cools the fire, suppressing heat and reducing the risk of re-ignition.
Key components of AFFF include:
- Surfactants: These reduce the surface tension of water, allowing the foam to spread across the liquid's surface.
- Stabilizers: Ensure the foam maintains its structure and effectiveness.
- PFAS Chemicals: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which make the foam highly effective at repelling heat and fuel.
The Hidden Dangers of Using AFFF
While AFFF has saved countless lives by effectively controlling dangerous fires, its reliance on PFAS chemicals has raised alarms about its safety. PFAS, often called "forever chemicals," are highly persistent in the environment and have been linked to severe health issues, including:
- Kidney, liver, and testicular cancers
- Thyroid disease
- Immune system disorders
When AFFF is used, PFAS can seep into soil and groundwater, contaminating drinking water supplies and ecosystems. This has led to significant environmental and public health concerns, particularly near military installations, airports, and industrial facilities where AFFF has been heavily used.
The Shift Away from Using AFFF
Due to the risks associated with PFAS, efforts are underway to phase out traditional AFFF formulations and develop safer alternatives. Many manufacturers and organizations are now exploring fluorine-free foams (F3) that aim to provide similar firefighting capabilities without the environmental and health hazards.
Regulatory bodies and governments worldwide are also implementing stricter controls on AFFF use, storage, and disposal to minimize further contamination.