DE69616365T2 - FIRE-REPRESENTATIVE FOAM, DISPERSION AGENT AND DETERGENT ECKHARD III FORMULA - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention relates to a foam fire suppressant, dispersant and detergent composition containing an emulsifier surfactant, a coconut fatty acid, a vegetable distilled fatty acid, a nonionic and ionic surfactant, a wetting agent surfactant, a heat transfer agent, a detergent builder surfactant, a food coloring agent, a pH control agent, distilled water, and a freezing point depressant. The composition acts as a fire suppressant foam generator, an oil and flammable liquid dispersant and detergent. It is biodegradable and breaks down fuel spills as well as the fuels which it extinguishes. The composition of the present invention is also useful as a detergent for clean-up of equipment after a spill or fire involving hydrocarbons, and furthermore useful as a detergent for general household cleaning.

Description

The present invention relates to fire suppressant compositions and, more particularly, to detergent-containing suppressant compositions which serve as dispersants for oily and hydrocarbon liquids.

The fire suppressant detergent and dispersant composition of this invention is a combination of ingredients that produces a foam substance which, as a fire suppressant, will extinguish common flammable and combustible liquid fires. The foam substance reacts by covering the fire and the surface of the combustible liquid, by providing a coating that prevents combustibles from releasing gases, and by cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire. The formulation will not be torn apart by flames, wind, thermal updrafts, and, most importantly, hydrocarbon exposure. The foam system will flow around objects to cover areas that are difficult to access and is capable of forming a stable foam blanket that will re-seal itself if its surface is torn apart. The foam, due to its water content, will provide a cooling effect around the foam bubbles along with its membrane when the substance is applied to heated metal surfaces. The foam bubbles maintain the water content within the foam, making the formulation more adhesive and resistant to flashback due to aggravation by the fire or exposure to heat. The low runoff and ability to adhere to curved and vertical surfaces also contribute to the favorable properties. When applied to Class "A" and Class "B" flammable liquid fires, the foam of this invention has rapid extinguishing action, excellent vapor sealing and unique adhesive properties. The formulation is halon and fluorocarbon free, noncorrosive and works equally well with fresh or sea water. The substance then reacts as a dispersant in a process to degrade the properties of the fuel it is extinguishing.

The formulation is a colloidal system that works by means of micelles, e.g. a submicroscopic aggregation of molecules, such as a drop in a colloidal system. The micelles repel each other in a perpetual random motion. The colloidal Action penetrates dirt, grease or oil, with each micelle enclosing a particle of the dirt or oil, and the individual particles continue to disperse and repel each other, losing their ability to re-coalesce or redeposit on the surface. The formula penetrates any porous surface to reach any oily mass and break it down into smaller particles quickly, safely and without harm to the environment.

When used as a detergent, the biodegradable non-toxic cleaner is used like any other conventional cleaner, including use by pressure spray, intended for a specific application, and a specific concentrate or super concentrate to water ratio is applied prior to use. The detergent is antistatic and contains an antibacteriostatic agent.

When used as a detergent cleaner, the non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-abrasive, phosphate, ammonia and chloride free cleaner is applied with a sponge, cloth or brush.

When used as a biodegradable non-toxic dispersant for oil and flammable liquids, the formulation is used with conventional existing oil or flammable liquid spillage equipment. The properties of the formulation enable it to be used in a wide variety of such applications. The formulation does not contain any caustic material.

As an oil and flammable liquid dispersant, it can be applied using the most common pressure equipment found on ships, boats and tugs. The on-board firefighting system provides the most effective means of both applying the dispersant and providing the agitation necessary for successful dispersion. This eliminates dependence on rough sea conditions for agitation. The dispersant should always be applied directly onto or into the oil or flammable liquid spill in a steady stream, particularly if the spill is drifting towards a shoreline or other environmentally sensitive area.

As a dispersant and cleaner for oil and flammable liquid spills on land and to prevent the ignition of flammable liquids, it can be applied by induction using the usual pressure equipment available to fire suppression authorities.

The fire suppressant compositions known in the firefighting industry are generally divided into chemical foams and mechanical foams. The purpose of covering the fire area with foam is to form a substantially homogeneous mask of a small amount of air in an aqueous foam that will not be separated or ruptured by wind, flames, etc., that is capable of self-sealing, and that is sufficiently fluid to flow around objects and reach and cover areas that could ignite or be on fire. The foam blanket ideally cuts off the oxygen supply to the combustion area or, in the case of a flammable liquid spill, covers the liquid, preventing the generation of dangerous vapors and possible ignition of the flammable liquid. The benefit of the foam blanket can be attributed in part to the fact that the foam has a high water content and produces a cooling effect on the heated surfaces. The amount of moisture contained in the foam is usually measured by the foam run-off time. Foams with a high moisture content run off at a faster rate than foams with a low moisture content.

Mechanical foams are created by aerating a foam composition to cause air entrapment in the aqueous phase and thereby form the foam bubbles. Known mechanical foam systems contain proteins, fluoroproteins, synthetic detergents, aqueous film forming agents (AFFF), polyglycoside detergents, polysaccharide bipolymers, highly fluorinated surfactants and pectins.

Synthetic detergent foams are characterized by their significant expansion rate (about 20 to 1, compared to expansion rates of 8 to 1 or 10 to 1 for protein or fluoroprotein foams). Synthetic detergent foam has good fluidity, but poor stability and rapid drain time, poor radiant heat resistance and rapid dispersion. Synthetic detergent foam fluids contain surfactants, foam stabilizers, and freezing point depressants. Synthetic detergent foams provide an insulating shield for heat and allow firefighters to breathe and work, using a mask if necessary. Synthetic detergent foam combines the use of fluorocarbon surfactants and appropriate foam stabilizers.

Protein foam is mainly produced by alkaline or acidic hydrolysis of either plant or animal proteins, including hydrolyzed protein solutions from soybeans, peanuts, feather meal, hoof meal, horn meal, blood or fish scales. Iron salts are always added to give the foam bubbles heat resistance and mechanical stability. Freezing point depressants and viscosity control agents are also added.

Protein foams contain various iron salts and other special ingredients that make them both toxic and corrosive.

Fluoroprotein foam combines the use of a common protein foam base with certain proprietary fluorinated surfactants to resist degradation by dry chemical agents. Film-forming fluoroprotein foam contains fluorocarbon surfactants.

Aqueous film-forming foams use both hydrolyzed protein and fluorinated surfactant as a base plus stabilizing additives. US Patent 4,594,167 discloses a fire-extinguishing foam composition containing protein hydrolyzate and a fluorinated surfactant.

US Patent 4,713,182 discloses a fire suppressant foam composition containing citrus pectin and fluorine-substituted thioether.

US Patent 5,207,932 discloses firefighting foam containing a polyglycoside to assist perfluoroalkylene surfactants.

US Patent 5,061,383 discloses a detergent-type mechanical foam containing surfactants derived from fatty acids.

US Patent 4,859,349 discloses polysaccharides bound to perfluoroalkyl surfactants.

CA-A-1 337 011 discloses a liquid formulation used as a Class "D" fire retardant containing a mixture of:

a mixture of a linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, a nonionic detergent and a lauryl superamide detergent, which constitutes approximately 39-67 percent of the total mass of the formulation,

Vitamin B-6 in the amount of 1-3% by weight of the detergent mixture, Sodium chloride in the amount of about 3-41% by weight of the detergent mixture,

Sodium hydrogen carbonate in an amount of about 3-20% by weight of the detergent mixture,

Colouring and perfuming agents in an amount of 0-4% by weight of the detergent mixture and

a volume of water large enough to ensure effective mixing of the other components of the formulation, and not sufficiently large to interfere with the use of the formulation as an effective Class "D" fire retardant.

Chemical Abstracts, Volume 98, No. 14, Abstract No. 109967 describes foam fire extinguishers containing 0.3-15% dibenzylidene sorbitol or bis(methylbenzylidene)sorbitol, 1-30% surfactant, 0.5-5% stabilizer, 1-50% polar organic solvent and 50-97% water.

The main disadvantage of aqueous film forming foams (AFEF), such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,207,932, is that it is a surfactant which releases halocarbons, and the gaseous agents are divided into two classes for use as fire suppressants. Carbon dioxide and halocarbons, such as Halon 1011, Halon 1301, Halon 1211 and carbon tetrachloride, are all either toxic or oxygen depleting, and the halocarbons deplete the ozone layer.

The main disadvantage of fluoroprotein foams is that they contain fluorocarbons. These fluorocarbons will release gaseous halocarbon compounds that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to the "greenhouse effect".

The main disadvantage of using polysaccharide polymers is the need to use large quantities of polysaccharide (between 1 and 2% in the foam concentrate) to obtain a foam with good extinguishing properties on polar solvent fires. This polymer concentration greatly increases the viscosity of the foam compound. The application of such a viscous foam is difficult and becomes impossible below 5C, even at the lowest applicable polyester concentrations. The main disadvantage of synthetic detergent foams is that, although they are generally less toxic, they contain phosphates which can cause eutrophication in lakes and rivers. The vegetation in the water and the proliferation of algae in huge green slime patches can cause damage to the rest of the marine ecosystem. They contribute nothing to the process of biodegradation.

Highly fluorinated surfactants have been used on polar solvent fires. This type of foam contains fluorocarbon surfactants and various foam stabilizers. It can be used with fresh or salt water and resists degradation by dry chemicals. Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) has both low viscosity and low surface tension, which allows it to spread rapidly over the fuel surface and extinguish fires from shallow or deep fuel pools. The main disadvantage of this type of foam is that it has a fast drain time, which can cause the flammable liquid may ignite or reignite once the foam has drained away.

Fluoroprotein foam and aqueous film forming foam both contain fluorocarbon surfactants. These foams are both toxic, especially to marine life, and can cause corrosion on unpainted and unprotected metal surfaces, especially aircraft engines. While these surfactants themselves do not harm the ozone layer, they will release gaseous halocarbon compounds that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to the "greenhouse effect."

Fire departments are not allowed to practice with it unless they have special containers and containment equipment and systems that can capture and treat the runoff. Even if they are captured, they are toxic to the bacteria in the collection and treatment system, and as a result most fire schools test special brands on their bacterial strains before allowing them to be used in their training.

These surfactants release halogenated carbon compounds and contribute to the greenhouse effect, which is why they are subject to the MONTREAL PROTOCOL.

Accordingly, such prior art formulations are not multipurpose formulations. It is also desirable to provide a fire suppression foam that can be used in conventional fire extinguisher containers. Currently, these fire extinguishers contain sodium bicarbonate and CO2 under pressure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a biodegradable non-toxic fire foam, a biodegradable oil and flammable liquid emulsifying dispersant and a biodegradable non-caustic non-corrosive non-abrasive phosphate-, chlorine- and ammonia-free multi-purpose cleaner and more particularly to a newly developed formulation of a homogeneous mixture of colloids, sterilants, bacteriostats, sequestrants, surfactants, fatty acids, freezing point depressants and hyperwetting agents used as a Class "A" and "B" fire suppressant, oil and flammable liquid spill abatement dispersant, general oil and grease cleaner, multi-purpose industrial and household cleaner.

The fire suppressant foam of the present invention has the positive qualities of a film-forming fluoroprotein or fluoropolysaccharide foam, with fluorocarbon being avoided for environmental reasons. is eliminated. Concentrations of 3-14% of the fire suppressant composition of this invention, mechanically converted to water-based foam, were found to be effective as fire suppressants, although, depending on the type of fire, other concentrations could be used effectively.

The invention comprises a fire suppression foam concentrate designed for use on flammable liquid fires and which can be used on hydrocarbon fires or polar solvent fires and which is specifically formulated to meet the requirements of an agreement signed in Montreal, Canada on September 16, 1987, known as the Montreal Protocol, for the phase-out of halogenated fire suppressants.

COMPONENT DESCRIPTION (fire suppressant foam, dispersant and detergent)

according to this invention.

(a) TMAlkamide-DC-2125 (Rhone Poulenc, Inc.), formerly Cyclomid 212, Coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

(b) TMAmphosol CA (Stephan Company) Betainamidopropyl-N-dimethylaminoacetic acid, amino acid with 2-6 carbon atoms,

(c) TMMakon-10 {Stephan Company) non-ionic disinfectant and electrically discharging hydrophilic C₂-C₄ alkoxylate ethylene oxide to hydrophobic nonylphenol,

(d) TMPropylene glycol,

(e) TMRhodapon LCP-30% SM-40% (Rhone Poulenc, Inc.), formerly Sipon-SM Sodium lauryl sulfate,

(f) TMTergitol 1559 (Union Carbide) family of polyethylene glycol ethers, H (CH2 )11-15 O(CH2 CH2 O) · H alkyloxypolyethyleneoxyethanol (x with 7-10 mol CH2 CH2 O),

(g) TMTriton H66 (Union Carbide) anionic surfactant Alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt (at a strength of 50%),

(h) TMTriton N60 (Union Carbide) Family of non-ionic surfactants Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)O,a-(4-nonylphenyl)-whydroxy- branched nonylphenoxypolyethoxyethylene,

(i) Food coloring (Mc Cornick)

Colour index numbers 16035, 19140, 42090 and 45430,

j) distilled water.

Alternative fatty acids for use in the composition include:

Coconut fatty acid, TMEthofate, TMCortic acid C60, TMCortic acid C70 and TMCortic acid G70.

Suitable surfactants include TMCyclo 21, mcyclo 4221, lauric acid diethanolamide, linear alkyl sulfate sodium salt, TMRhodapone 5B-8208, TMRhodapex Es, TMRhodapex N70, sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate and TMTergitol NP- 9 .

Instead of surfactant (e) (TMRhodapone-SM), a sodium lauryl sulfate TMRhodapone-LCP (Rhone Poulenc, Inc.) is used for use as a lower concentration.

TMTriton N101 is a replacement emulsifier for use in the composition of this invention.

An example of a heat transfer agent for use in the composition is polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether.

DESCRIPTION IN PERCENTAGE BY WEIGHT OF THE PREFERRED

Fire suppression foam, dispersant and detergent concentrate form components according to the present invention.

(a) 12.00-34.90% emulsifier coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

(b) 1.75-22.00% detergent builder amidopropyl N-C₂-C₆ amino acid,

(c) 1.75-7.00% disinfectant and antistatic agent non-ionic hydrophilic ethylene oxide to hydrophobic nonylphenol C₂-C₄ alkoxylate,

(d) 1.75-8.00% propylene glycol as freezing point depressant,

(e) 1.75-16.00% sodium lauryl sulfate at 30% and 40% strength as antibacterial agent, detergent stabilizer for low temperature clarity and uniform particle size;

(f) 8.75-25.00% corrosion inhibitor and stabilizer Alkyloxypolyethyleneoxyethanol glycol ether of the formula H(CH₂)₁₁₋₁₅-O-(CH₂CH₂O)₇₋₁₀H,

(g) 3.50-49, 50% wetting and detergent builder anionic alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt surfactant having a strength of 50%,

(h) 3.50-12.00% heat transfer agent nonionic-hydroxypolyoxyethylene surfactant, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl-O,a-(4-nonylphenyl)-whydroxy-, branched nonylphenoxypolyethoxyethylene,

(i) 0.10-0.50% colour code food colouring with nature index numbers 16035, 19140, 42090 and 45430,

(j) 8.00-65.00% Viscosity regulator distilled water.

The following are EXAMPLES of fire suppression foam, dispersant and

Detergent concentrate compositions according to the present invention:

34.9% TMAlkamid DC-212S, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

5.0% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

5.0% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate,

5.0% propylene glycol,

5.0% TMRhodapone LCP-30%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

25.0% TMTergitol 15-S-9, polyethylene glycol alkyl ether,

10.0% TMTriton HEG< Alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50% and

10.0% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, was mixed in a vessel and 0.1% food coloring with the texture index number 16035 was added during mixing.

EXAMPLE 2

ANALYTE-CSF-369WL

22.0% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

8.0% TMRhodapone LCP-30%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

49.5% TMH66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

12.0% TMTriton N60, nonylphenoxypolyethoxyethylene, was mixed in a vessel and, while the mixture was stirred, sufficient or 8.0% distilled water was added.

A light red food coloring, texture index number 16035, was prepared and added in sufficient amount or 0.5% to obtain the desired color.

EXAMPLE 3

ANALYTE-CSF-AX14

12.0% TMAlkamid DC 2125, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

11.0% TMAmphosol, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₅-amino acid,

7.0% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol Ca-C4 alkoxylate,

8.0% Propylene glycol,

16.0% TMRhodapon LCP-30, sodium lauryl sulfate,

15.5% TMTergitol 1550, polyethylene glycol ether,

20.0% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50% and

10.0% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, was mixed in a vessel.

A light blue food coloring, texture index number 42090, was prepared and added in sufficient amount or 0.5% to obtain the desired color.

EXAMPLE 4

ANALYTE-HCD-8x

27.9% TMAlkamid DC-2125, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

4.0% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

4.0% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate,

4.0% Propylene glycol,

4.0% TMRhodapone LCP-30%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

20.0% TMTergitol, polyethylene glycol alkyl ether,

8.0% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

8.0% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, and

0.1% food coloring with texture index numbers 42090 and 19140 were mixed in a vessel and 20% distilled water was added while stirring.

EXAMPLE 5

ANALYTE-CEC-7

24.4% TMAlkamide CD-2125, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

3.5% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

3.5% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol Cz-C4 alkoxylate,

3.5% propylene glycol,

3.5% TMRhodapon SM-40%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

17.5% TMTergitol 1559, polyethylene glycol alkyl ether,

7.0% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

7.0% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene and

0.1% food coloring with the texture index number 45430 was mixed in a container and 30% distilled water was added while stirring.

EXAMPLE 6

ANALYTE-APACC-6

20.9% TMAlkamid DC-2125, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

3.0% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

3.0% TMMakos-10, nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate,

3.0% Propylene glycol,

3.0% TMRhodapone LCP-30%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

15.0% TMTergitol 15S9, polyethylene glycol ether,

6.0% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

6.0% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, and

0.1% food coloring with the texture index number 16035 was mixed in a container and 40% distilled water was added while stirring.

EXAMPLE 7

ANALYTE-APCC-4

13.9% TMAlkamid DC 2125, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

2.0% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

2.0% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate,

2.0% Propylene glycol,

2.0% TMRhodapon SM-40%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

10.0% TMTergitol 15S9, polyethylene glycol alkyl ether,

4.0% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

4.0% Triton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, and

0.1% food coloring with the texture index number 42090 was mixed in a container and 60% distilled water was added while stirring.

EXAMPLE 8

12, 15% TMAlkamid DC-212S, coconut fatty acid diethanolamide,

1.75% TMAmphosol CA, amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₆-amino acid,

1.75% TMMakon-10, nonylphenol Cz-C4 alkoxylate,

1.75% propylene glycol,

1.75% TMRhodapone LCP-30%, sodium lauryl sulfate,

8.75% TMTergitol 1559, polyethylene glycol ether,

3.50% TMTriton H66, alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%,

3, 50% TMTriton N60, alkylphenol hydroxypolyoxyethylene, and

0.10% food coloring with the texture index number 19140 was mixed in a vessel and mixed with 65% distilled water while stirring.

FOLLOWING ARE EXAMPLES OF FIRE SUPPRESSION FOAM, DISPERSANT AND DETERGENT in field testing according to the present invention.

3 to 6% of the concentrate of the mixture in EXAMPLE 1 was added to synthetic seawater to give 20 liters of solution. The diluted solution was stirred and placed in a suction tank. A suction line from the tank was connected to an electrically operated mechanical centrifuge pump. A nozzle with a 0.18 cm (0.071 inch) diameter nozzle orifice was connected to a 2.54 cm (1 inch) diameter pressure line. A steel pan measuring 480 mm x 480 mm x 150 mm was used and 2 liters of gasoline and 1 liter of diesel fuel were poured into 2 cm of water in the pan. The pan was ignited, the pump turned on, maintaining a positive pressure of 1034 kPa (150 psig), and the fire was attacked with the foam substance and extinguished in less than 5 seconds. After the fire was extinguished, an open propane flame was held over the tub, close to the carpet surface, and no reignition occurred.

6 liters of EXAMPLE 1 was mixed with 194 liters of water to provide a product concentration of 3%. A sample was taken to determine the foam drain time and it was found that the foam drained exceptionally slowly with a drain time factor of 17.06 minutes. The solution was then poured into a holding tank and pressurized with nitrogen to 827 kPa (120 psig). 65 USG (246 liters) of heptane fuel was heated in a UL recognized indoor system into a steel pan containing a layer of water. A foam generating nozzle rated at 2 USG (7.57 liters) per minute was placed stationary in front of the steel pan. The steel pan containing 65 USG (246 liters) of heptane fuel over a layer of water was then ignited and allowed to pre-burn for 60 seconds. The pressure valve on the storage tank was opened and the medium was applied stationary to the surface of the fire until extinguished. The total amount of medium applied to the fire was less than 9.6 USG (36.4 liters) or 0.288 USG (1.092 liters) of product. No reignition occurred.

The formulation in EXAMPLE 1 has been laboratory tested to Boeing, Douglas, Aerospace and U.S. Military specifications and received approval on August 8, 1995.

These formulations are effective as fire suppressant foam, aircraft exterior cleaner, general cleaning agent, all-purpose household cleaner, hand soap and dishwashing liquid.

According to Boeing, Douglas, Aerospace and U.S. Military test specifications, the compound shown in EXAMPLE 1 will not corrode or cause hydrogen embrittlement of the following materials: aluminum alloy, Alclad aluminum alloy, anodized aluminum alloy, bare anodized aluminum alloy, brass, copper, dichromate treated magnesium alloy, stainless steel, titanium steel and carbon steel.

The formulation does not crack or discolor leather, vinyl, rubber, plastic and acrylic materials, it is non-corrosive and non-abrasive.

6% of the concentrate mixture of EXAMPLE 2 was added to synthetic seawater to give 20 liters of solution. The diluted solution was stirred and placed in a suction tank. A suction line from the tank was connected to an electrically operated mechanical centrifuge pump. A nozzle with a 0.18 cm (0.071 inch) diameter restrictor orifice was connected to a 2.54 cm (1 inch) diameter pressure line. A steel pan measuring 480 mm x 480 mm x 150 mm was used and 2 liters of gasoline and 1 liter of diesel fuel were poured into 2 cm of water in the pan. The pan was ignited, the pump turned on, maintaining a positive pressure of 1034 kPa (150 psig), and the fire would be attacked with the foam substance and extinguished in less than 9 seconds. After the fire was extinguished, it did not reignite.

14% of the mixture of EXAMPLE 3 was added to distilled water to give 4 liters of diluted solution. The diluted solution was then added to a 5-liter fire extinguisher container and the container was then pressurized with nitrogen to 1345 kPa (195 psig). The nozzle described above was installed on the outlet hose of the fire extinguisher.

A steel pan measuring 480 mm x 480 mm x 150 mm was used and 500 ml of gasoline and 500 ml of diesel fuel were poured into the pan in 2 cm of water. The pan was then ignited and 30 seconds later the fire was fought and extinguished in less than 7 seconds. After the fire was extinguished, there was no re-ignition. 3 to 4 drops of EXAMPLE 5 were applied to a damp sponge and used effectively as a cleaner for acrylic and plastic materials, capable of removing smoke deposits.

3 to 4 drops of EXAMPLE 8 were applied to a damp sponge and used effectively to provide a protective shine to vehicle interior components such as leather, vinyl, acrylic and plastic materials.

Samples of EXAMPLE 6 were processed under Boeing, Douglas, Aerospace and U.S. Military regulations as follows and received the following approval on August 8, 1995:

BOEING D6-17487 REVISION L

Sandwich Corrosion Test, Acrylic Cracking Test, Paint Softening Test and Hydrogen Embrittlement Test, CONFORM.

Determination standards: Mil-A8625 Type I; ASTM-F1110; ASTM-F1193; ASTM-F4B4; STM-F519-77, Section 7.2; ASTM-502; BAC-5882; BAC-5845; BAC-5795; BMS 10- 60 and BMS 10-100.

DOUGLAS AIRCRAFTS CSD#1

Painted surface impact test; Residue test; Sandwich corrosion test; Acrylic stress cracking test; Immersion corrosion test; Cadmium removal test and Hydrogen embrittlement test; COMPLIANT

Determination standards: ASTM-F502; ASTM-F-485; ASTM-484 with 38028 kPa (4500 psi) stress value; ASTM-F483, equivalent to Federal Regulation QQ-A- 250/13; ASTM-F-519 Type 1C; Mil-S-18729; Mil-C-5541 and Mil-A-8625.

AMS 1526B (AEROSPACE MATERIAL SPECIFICATION)

Sandwich Corrosion Test, Total Immersion Corrosion Test, Low Embrittlement Cadmium Plate Test, Hydrogen Embrittlement Test, Flash Point Test, Effect on Transparent Acrylic Test, Effect on Painted Surfaces Test and Effect on Unpainted Surfaces Test, CONFORM.

Determination standards: ASTM-F1110 2024-T3 anodized, 2024-T3 alclad, 7075- T6 anodized, 7075-T6 alclad; ASTM-F11111; ASTM-F519 Type 1C/150 hours; ASTM-502; ASTM-485; Mil-P-25690 plastic and ATM-F483. Total immersion corrosion test ASTM-F483:

EXAMPLES of physical properties of fire suppression foam, dispersant and detergent analytes according to the present invention FOLLOW.

The composition of EXAMPLE 1

has the following general physical properties: Flash point Non-flammable

Density 1.086 kg/l

Boiling point 81.0ºC

Viscosity cps at 20C 290

pH10.7

Pouring point -160

Freezing point < -20ºC

Miscibility No separation

Solubility Complete

Foam density 3% 0.2426 g/ml Foam density 6% 0.2761 g/ml

Foam density 9% 0.3593 g/ml Foam density 14% 0.3368 g/ml

The foam was produced by mixing the indicated % of the sample with 100 ml of distilled water and shaking vigorously in a one-litre container. The weight per volume of foam produced was immediately measured and expressed in g/ml.

The composition of EXAMPLE 2

has the following general physical properties: Flash point Non-flammable

Density 1.140 kg/l

Boiling point 81.0ºC

Viscosity cps at 20C 400

pH8.0

Pouring point -11ºC

Freezing point < -20ºC

Miscibility No separation

Solubility Complete

Foam density 3% 0.0903 g/ml Foam density 6% 0.0981 g/ml

Foam density 9% 0.0951 g/ml Foam density 14% 0.1014 g/ml

The foam was produced by mixing the indicated % of the sample with 100 ml of distilled water and shaking vigorously in a one-litre container. The weight per volume of foam produced was immediately measured and expressed in g/ml.

The composition of EXAMPLE 3

has the following general physical properties:

Flash point Non-flammable

Density 1.080 kg/l

Boiling point 83.0ºC

Viscosity cps at 20ºC 220

pH9.6

Pouring point -16C

Freezing point < -20ºC

Miscibility No separation

Solubility Complete

Foam density 3% 0.0885 g/ml Foam density 6% 0.0926 g/ml

Foam density 9% 0.0941 g/ml Foam density 14% 0.0966 g/ml

The foam was produced by mixing the indicated % of the sample with 100 ml of distilled water and shaking vigorously in a one-litre container. The weight per volume of foam produced was immediately measured and expressed in g/ml.

The composition of EXAMPLE 4

has the following general physical properties:

Flash point Non-flammable

Density 1.032 kg/l

Boiling point 109ºC

Viscosity cps at 20ºC 310

pH 12.8.

Ionic Activity None

Freezing point > -13ºC

Miscibility No separation

Solubility Complete

In use, the fire suppressant detergent foam of this invention is applied in various ratios of the designated concentration by hand lines, monitors, dispensers, high expansion mechanical foam applicators and water foam sprinkler systems. The expansion ratio of the foam can be from 1 to 800 or more. The types of water that can be used to fight fires range from hard to soft, fresh, salt or brackish water contaminated with industrial waste. Fire foam application methods vary from hand line induction devices to master jet devices. In straight jet application methods, the foam jet should be directed at solid objects to reflect the pattern and affect the velocity of the jet. The bump and roll method can also be used to reflect a surface in front of the area where the fire is concentrated. This process causes the foam movement to increase, resulting in a stronger, more stable carpet. The arc application method is used when the jet is directed in a high arc so that the foam falls onto the burning area.

In field tests, the composition of the invention has been shown to adhere to vertical and curved surfaces, emulsify hydrocarbons and be effective in fires involving flammable liquids with low flash point. The formulation is slow draining, free of halon and fluorocarbon, non-caustic, ammonia and phosphate. The formulation forms a liquid blanket covering the entire area. The formulation provides a rapid initial reduction in thermal radiation and is resistant to re-ignition of the fire. The formulation is suitable for aircraft firefighting. The formulation is film forming, gives a stable foam blanket and has a high expansion rate. The foam fluidity is excellent and the foam flows around obstacles and gives coverage of the entire surface. Foam stability is excellent, it has a high moisture content with a low drain time and a long lasting slow dissolution. Adhesion is excellent and the foam adheres to horizontal, vertical and curved surfaces. Fuel sealing capabilities are excellent as the foam forms a stable emulsion film, suppresses hazardous and flammable gas vapors, prevents reignition, disperses hydrocarbon fuels, alcohols and solvents, is not harmful to human health and leaves no contaminated residue. The formulation has no flash point, is non-flammable, does not harm painted surfaces, does not harm unpainted surfaces, nor does the formulation leave any harmful residue. Extinguishment is excellent, the formulation provides rapid fire suppression within the specified time frame and under Underwriter Laboratories simulated test procedures at 90% suppression, extinguishment and 20% burnback.

The actual concentration of the formulation used with water to enable the formulation to be used as a fire foam, oil dispersant, flammable liquid dispersant or cleaning agent will vary from application to application.

For use as a dispersant for oil spills at sea, no special operating equipment is required. The usual pressure equipment on board ships, boats or tugs is the fire suppression system, which is the most effective means not only of discharging the dispersant, but also of providing the agitation required for successful dispersion. This eliminates the dependence on rough sea conditions for agitation. The foam formulation does not require any special safety measures or special safety precautions for personnel, and no specially designed expensive pumps, nozzles are necessary to successfully disperse oil spills and flammable liquid spills, and the possibility of ignition is greatly reduced.

When used as a general-purpose cleaner, no special equipment or protective clothing is required.

In concentrate, super concentrate or quad form, the composition has a specific composition-water ratio depending on the application.

Claims (9)

1. A concentrate for use as a fire suppressant foam, dispersant and detergent, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 12.00-34, 90% emulsifier coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 1.75-22.00% detergent builder amidopropyl N-C₂-C₆ amino acid, (c) 1.75-7.00% disinfectant and antistatic agent nonionic hydrophilic and hydrophobic C₂-C₄ alkoxylate ethylene oxide nonylphenol, (d) 1.75-8.00% freezing point depressant propylene glycol, (e) 1.75-16.00% sodium lauryl sulfate at 30% and 40% strength as antibacterial agent, detergent stabilizer for low temperature clarity and uniform particle size, (f) 8.75-25.00% corrosion inhibitor and stabilizer Alkyloxypolyethyleneoxyethanol glycol ether of the formula H(CH₂)₁₂₋₁₅O(CH₂CH₂O)₇₋₁₀H, (g) 3.50-49.50% wetting and detergent builder anionic alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt surfactant with a strength of 50%, (h) 3.50-12.00% non-ionic. -Hydroxypolyoxyethylene heat transfer agent Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl-O,a-(4-nonylphenyl)-w-hydroxybranched-nonylphenoxypolyethoxyethylene, (i) 0.10-0.50% colour code food colouring with the quality index numbers 16035, 19140, 42090 and 45430, (j) 8.00-65.00% viscosity adjuster distilled water, the percentages being selected to total 100% of the composition which is in the form of a pumpable liquid. 2. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant foam generator, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 34.90% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 5.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 5.00% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 5.00% Propylene glycol, (e) 5.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 30%, (f) 25.00% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 10.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 10.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.01% Colour Code, Texture Index Number 16035. 3. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant foam generator, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 22.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (b) 8.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 30%, (c) 49.50% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (d) 12.00% nonylphenoxypolyethoxyethylene, (e) 8.00% distilled water, (f) 0.50% colour code, texture index number 16035. 4. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant foam generator, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 12.00% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 11.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 7.00% nonylphenol C1-C4 alkoxylate, (d) 8.00% Propylene glycol, (e) 16.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 30%, (f) 15.50% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 20.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 10.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.50% Colour Code, Texture Index Number 42090. 5. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant dispersant, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 27.90% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 4.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 4.00% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 4.00% Propylene glycol, (e) 4.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 30%, (f) 20.00% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 8.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 8.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.10% colour code, quality index numbers 42090 and 19140, (j) 20.00% distilled water. 6. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant detergent and dispersant, which when used with water contains in weight percent: (a) 24.40% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 3.50% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C₂-C₄-amino acid, (c) 3.50% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 3.50% propylene glycol, (e) 3.50% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 40%, (f) 17.50% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 7.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 7.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.10% colour code, texture index number 45430, (j) 30.00% distilled water. 7. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant detergent and dispersant, which when used with water contains in weight percent: (a) 20.90% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 3.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 3.00% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 3.00% Propylene glycol, (e) 3.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 30%, (f) 15.00% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 6.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 6.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.10% colour code, texture index number 16035, (j) 40.00% distilled water. 8. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant detergent, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 13.90% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 2.00% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 2.00% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 2.00% propylene glycol, (e) 2.00% sodium lauryl sulfate with a strength of 40%, (f) 10.00% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 4.00% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 4.00% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.10% colour code, texture index number 42090, (j) 60.00% distilled water. 9. A concentrate composition for use as a fire suppressant detergent, which when used with water contains in percent by weight: (a) 12.15% coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, (b) 1.75% amidopropyl-N-dimethyl-C2 -C6 amino acid, (c) 1.75% nonylphenol C2 -C4 alkoxylate, (d) 1.75% propylene glycol, (e) 1.75% sodium lauryl sulfate at a strength of 30%; (f) 8.75% polyethylene glycol ether, (g) 3.50% alkylarylalkoxy potassium salt with a strength of 50%, (h) 3.50% alkylphenolhydroxypolyoxyethylene, (i) 0.10% colour code, texture index number 19140, (j) 65.00% distilled water.