Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Status and Alternatives: The Big Picture (2024 Status Update)

Abstract

Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) has been the industry standard for combatting liquid fuel fires and hazards for almost 50 years. AFFF is a water-based solution that contains a fluorinated, film forming surfactant [per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)] to seal the fuel surface during suppression/extinguishment. All “AFFFs” contain PFAS. Many PFAS are classified as forever chemicals (e.g., the ones used in AFFF) that do not naturally breakdown in the environment and/or in the human body. Some PFAS have been associated with health effects in both humans and in some animals. As a result, the ability to use AFFF to extinguish liquid fuel fires continues to be greatly restricted and has already been banned in numerous States in the United States and in countries across the world such as Australia. This article provides an update of the status of AFFF, the available alternatives and any revisions to applicable codes and standards.