Battelle announced on Monday that the company’s researchers have begun a project for the Department of Defense to examine commercial, fluorine-free aqueous film forming foams (AFFFs) to determine whether they meet military specifications for fire suppression.
The Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) is funding the project under its in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) research initiatives. In addition, Battelle Principal Investigator Satya Chauhan, PhD, will determine if commonly available firefighting engineering technology such as compressed air foam or ultra-high pressure will allow the foams to meet the required standards of extinguishment and burnback.
“Battelle would particularly like to collaborate with developers of novel fluorine-free firefighting foams that are at a technology readiness level (TRL) of at least three,†said Chauhan.
Battelle is focused on bringing science-based solutions to address the country’s growing PFAS concerns. The chemicals have been commonly used for decades in firefighting foams as well as water-repellent, stain resistant and non-stick products materials.
Much of Battelle’s efforts are focused on how to identify, characterize, capture and destroy these chemicals in an effort the restore affected sites. This new program is an upstream effort to provide safer firefighting foam alternatives that can still meet the military’s requirements.
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Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers.
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries.
