AFFF has been used by the DoD for about 50 years but discoveries about the persistent nature and human-health impacts of PFAS ingredients in these formulations necessitate development of PFAS-free firefighting foams. AFFF is a very effective tool used in fighting class B pool fires. The hydrophobic and oleophobic nature of PFAS surfactants allows these foam formulations to quickly form an effective barrier between the fuel and flame and extinguish the flame. The initial performance criteria in the current military specification requires that a 28-square-foot, alcohol free, fuel fire be completely extinguished in less than 30 seconds utilizing an application rate of two gallons per minute. The foams are thermally stable and can remain intact for several minutes, thus allowing firefighters safe ingress and egress. The qualification test for this criteria is termed burnback.

Efforts to develop alternative formulations were initiated in 2017 and have continued since then. To date no formulations can meet all the performance specifications of AFFF, but researchers are starting to identify commercial and developmental formulations that meet burnback but do not meet extinguishment criteria.

Subtopics:
Ecotoxicity of PFAS-Free Formulations

By studying and understanding the interactions of alternative PFAS-free firefighting formulations with the environment, SERDP and ESTCP aim to minimize the risk to the environment during training exercises or in emergency situations. Learn More...

Developing New Replacements

Newly developed and tested PFAS-free formulations are providing a better mechanistic understanding of extinguishment and reignition, as well as burnback performance. Learn More...

Field Demonstrations

Commercial PFAS-free alternatives are being demonstrated on pilot-scale and large-scenario-scale pool fires. These tests will inform MILSPEC development and also provide guidance to future firefighting training. Learn More...

Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting Cleanup

SERDP and ESTCP are exploring technologies for refurbishment and cleanup of ARFF vehicles and installation firefighting systems used with legacy AFFF as a means of reducing PFAS emissions as we move to alternative technologies. Learn More...