The Effects of Water Spray Cooling in Conjunction with Halogenated Extinguishants on Hydrogen Fluoride Generation and Decay
Abstract
The halogenated extinguishants Halon 1301, HFC-227ea (FM200) and NAF-S-III used within Royal Australian Navy vessels for total flooding fire suppression applications have hydrogen fluoride (HF) toxicity concerns. HF is readily produced when these extinguishants are subjected to elevated temperatures and is highly toxic in small concentrations. In the open literature, water spray used in conjunction with halogenated extinguishants has been reported to reduce peak HF production during extinguishment as well as increasing the HF decay rate. This data is summarized as a function of compartment sizes, type of extinguishant, spray initiation time prior to the extinguishant release, spray duration and the spray application rate. However, the use of water spray in conjunction with halogenated extinguishants still resulted in HF levels above the Occupational Health and Safety workplace maximums and exceeded the Immediate Danger to Life and Health level. This paper describes the production of HF from halogenated extinguishants and the factors contributing to the amount of HF produced.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA470020
Entities
People
- Ian Burch