Abstract |
Concerns about depletion of stratospheric ozone has forced restrictions on the production and use of some of our most important chemicals -- the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halon. Halons, the subject of this paper, are used for fire extinguishment, inertion, and explosion suppression. Assessment of business opportunities with halon replacement agents must take into account three uncertainties: (1) future regulatory activities, (2) a decreasing market due to conversion to alternative fire protection approaches, and (3) the unsettle technologies. The alternative approaches that will reduce the market for halons and halon-like agents include new procedures, equipment, engineering, and alternative agents (carbon dioxide, water, foam, dry chemical). |