Reclassification of selected hazardous substances with regard to the fire-fighting foams recommended for use in the event of a fire

Updating the ChemInfo database (Federal and State Chemicals Information System)

The ChemInfo chemicals information system provides substance-specific information on suitable extinguishing agents for use in firefighting. According to historical sources, the use of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) was recommended for 550 chemicals. Due to the impending ban on the fluorinated compounds contained in AFFF, a reassessment of the relevant entries regarding the recommended fire-fighting foams was necessary. Based on experimental studies and a literature review, an evaluation scheme for the selection of an alternative foaming agent was developed. Using cluster analysis, the 550 chemicals were grouped according to their physicochemical properties, and a suitable, fluorine-free foaming agent was assigned to each. The new fire-extinguishing agent recommendation has already been entered into the ChemInfo database.

Key points in brief:

• Funding: Federal Environment Agency
• Duration: 1 year
• Publication: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-658-46394-6_9
• Internal project coordinators:
  • Julia Backhaus, MSc
  • Daniel Schmitz, MSc