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Sunrise of PFAS Replacements: A Perspective on Fluorine-Free Foams
Citation:
Ibrahim, Mohamed Ateia, J. Van Buren, W. Barrett, T. Martin, AND G. Back. Sunrise of PFAS Replacements: A Perspective on Fluorine-Free Foams. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. American Chemical Society, Washington, DC, 11(21):7986-7996, (2023). https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c01124
Impact/Purpose:
This paper aims to provide critical analysis of the present state of the proposed PFAS alternatives in the foam sector, with an emphasis on the various fluorine-free options that have been developed to date. By examining the performance, cost, and regulatory considerations associated with these alternatives, we seek to provide a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by the sunrise of fluorine-free replacements. Our analysis suggests that the adoption of fluorine-free foams represents a promising step towards more sustainable and responsible practices within the industry and/or within the market application. However, we also caution that the transition to fluorine-free replacements is likely to be complex and multifaceted, requiring careful consideration of the trade-offs involved.
Description:
One type of firefighting foam, referred to as aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), is known to contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The concerns raised with PFAS, and their potential environmental and health impacts, have led to a surge in research on fluorine-free alternatives both in the United States and globally. Particularly, in January 2023, a new military specification (MIL-PRF-32725) for fluorine-free foam was released in accordance with Congressional requirements for the U.S. Department of Defense. This paper provides a critical analysis of the present state of the various fluorine-free options that have been developed to date. A nuanced perspective of the challenges and opportunities of more sustainable replacements is explored by examining the performance, cost, and regulatory considerations associated with these fluorine-free alternatives. Ultimately, this evaluation shows that the transition to fluorine-free replacements is likely to be complex and multifaceted, requiring careful consideration of the trade-offs involved. Yet, the ongoing work will provide valuable insights for future research on alternatives to AFFF and enhancing the safety and sustainability of fire suppression systems.
