Who Are The Largest Manufacturers of AFFF?
Several prominent companies have been involved in the production of AFFF:
- 3M: In collaboration with the U.S. Navy, 3M developed the original AFFF formula in 1966. The company has announced plans to cease AFFF production by 2025.
- DuPont: A major player in the chemical industry, DuPont was a significant AFFF producer until it stopped manufacturing the foam in 2021.
- Chemours: Spun off from DuPont in 2015, Chemours continued the production of AFFF products.
- Tyco Fire Products LP: A subsidiary of Johnson Controls, Tyco has been a leading supplier of fire protection products, including AFFF.
- Chemguard Inc.: Specializing in firefighting foams, Chemguard has been a notable AFFF manufacturer.
- National Foam Inc.: Known for its firefighting solutions, National Foam has produced AFFF for various applications.
- Buckeye Fire Equipment: This company has been involved in the production of firefighting equipment and AFFF.
- Kidde: A well-known name in fire safety, Kidde has manufactured AFFF products used globally.
- BASF Corporation: A major chemical company, BASF has been involved in the production of AFFF.
- Dynax Corporation: Specializing in fluorochemicals, Dynax has supplied components used in AFFF formulations.
These companies, among others, have been central to the widespread use of AFFF in various industries, including military, aviation, and firefighting services.
Legal Actions and Health Concerns
The use of AFFF has led to environmental contamination and health concerns due to its content of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals" because of their persistence in the environment and human body. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including certain cancers and thyroid disorders.
As a result, numerous lawsuits have been filed against AFFF manufacturers, alleging that they were aware of the potential risks associated with PFAS but failed to adequately warn users. These legal actions aim to hold manufacturers accountable for the environmental damage and health problems attributed to AFFF use.
Understanding the major players in AFFF manufacturing is crucial, especially for those affected by its use. As legal proceedings continue, it's essential to stay informed about the developments concerning AFFF and its manufacturers.