Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of firefighting foam used to suppress flammable liquid fires. It works by creating a film that spreads over the surface of the burning liquid, cutting off the oxygen supply and cooling the fire. AFFF is commonly used in industrial settings, airports, and military applications due to its effectiveness against hydrocarbon fires.
AFFF is composed of water, surfactants, and other additives that enhance its performance. While it is effective in firefighting, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of certain chemicals in AFFF, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which can persist in the environment and pose health risks.