Flame Inhibition by Phosphorus-Containing Compounds
Abstract
This project investigated phosphorus-containing compounds (PCCs) as alternatives to halon fire suppressants. The flame suppression effectiveness of two PCCs, dimethyl methylphosphonate and trimethyl phosphate, was evaluated by determining their effect on the global extinction strain rate in opposed-jet flames. A novel method for approaching extinction was devised and validated for use in extinction measurements involving low-vapor-pressure additives. Effectiveness was determined for nonpremixed methane vs. air and propane vs. air flames, methane/air premixed flames, and a variety of nonpremixed methane/nitrogen vs. oxygen/nitrogen flames. For all the flames tested, these PCCs showed very high flame suppression effectiveness. Their effectiveness was two to four times higher than literature values for CF3Br in nonpremixed methane vs. air flames. For the limited range of PCCs tested, the chemical form of the parent compound appeared to have little effect on flame suppression properties. The effectiveness of PCCs increases as flame temperature decreases. Effectiveness per mole PCC at the flame location is somewhat higher for oxidant-side delivery than for fuel-side delivery. PCCs show promise as halon replacements. Further research is needed to investigate their mechanisms of action, to determine important toxicological and materials compatibility properties, and to devise effective ways to deliver them to fires.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA418454
Entities
People
- E. M. Fisher
- F. C. Gouldin
- M. A. Macdonald
- T. M. Jayaweera
Organizations
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering