PFAS Contamination in Aqueous Film-Forming Foam

 

AFFFs, or aqueous film-forming foams, are a type of plastic that has been around since the early 1900s. They are manufactured with a mixture of toxic chemicals, most notably PFOA and PFOS, which are considered human carcinogenic. The Environmental Working Group reported that PFAS contamination was found in 2,854 locations in August 2021. While the PFAS contamination problem is not a new one, it is important to understand what causes the risks of AFFF and how you can avoid them.

AFFF is a type of fire suppressant. It works by coating the fuel behind the fire, which is then extinguished. Because it is made from surfactants, it has a unique surfactant property that protects and regenerates the film. These characteristics provide tremendous effectiveness and a wider usage envelope for firefighters. Despite the concerns of PFASs, the safety of AFFF is important.

AFFF is a fire suppressant that works by cooling down the burning fuel. It forms a film between the fuel and oxygen. AFFFs have been around since the early 1900s and have evolved over the years. While legacy AFFFs contained many different PFAS compounds, most current-use foams only contain short-chain PFAS. While this is still dangerous, there are better ways to combat flammable liquid fires.

In addition to being a potential health risk, AFFF is used in the fight against flammable liquid fires in vehicles and ships. PFAS in AFFF have been found in waterways, and the Defense Department is researching their effects on microorganisms. These organisms are critical for carbon cycling and co-contaminant degradation. Therefore, a careful understanding of the effects of PFAS is required.

Aqueous film-forming foams have become an important part of firefighting systems. They contain PFAS, which are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals have been used since the 1960s to extinguish hydrocarbon fires. However, they have been linked to numerous adverse impacts on the environment. In the United States, PFAS have been detected in Aqueous film-forming foam in a variety of applications.

Aqueous film-forming foam is an extinguishing agent used to put out hydrocarbon fires. These substances are commonly used in shipboard fire suppression systems, in fire fighting vehicles, and in fire training facilities. Aqueous film-forming-foam is available as a concentrate and is purchased in bulk quantities. It is also sold in ready-to-use kits, which make it convenient for emergency responders.

AFFF is a widely used firefighting agent. It has several advantages over other fire-fighting agents. Firstly, it is biodegradable and is suitable for many applications. PFASs are harmful in many ways. Aqueous film-forming foams contain PFASs. Secondly, they are alcohol-resistant, which means they are not affected by a chemical-resistant surface.