Experimental Study on Foam Properties of Mixtures of Organic Silicon and Hydrocarbon Surfactants Regulated by Nano-SiO2 Particles

Abstract

Nano SiO₂ particles (NPs) combined with organosilane surfactants present a promising avenue for the development of stable fluorine-free firefighting foams. In this study, hydrophilic nano SiO₂ particles, non-ionic organosilane surfactant (SiCare2238), and amphoteric hydrocarbon surfactant (LAMC) were prepared as a mixed dispersion to investigate the interactions between nano particles and surfactants, foaming ability, and foam stability of the mixed dispersion. Results indicated that the surface activity, electrical conductivity, and foaming ability of the mixed dispersion decreased with increasing NPs concentration. The impact of NPs on foam stability depended on the filling and blocking mechanisms within the platform boundary of the formed liquid film. At NPs concentrations below 1.5%, strong electrostatic interactions among surfactant molecules resulted in the adsorption of surfactant molecules on the nano particle surface, preventing the formation of a network structure at the platform boundary, thereby reducing foam stability. At NPs concentrations above 1.5%, a significant number of NPs formed a network structure, filling and blocking the platform boundary, leading to delayed foam drainage, coarsening, and enhanced foam stability. This study provides theoretical guidance for the application of nano particles in fluorine-free.