Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam, or AFFF, is a type of firefighting foam designed primarily to suppress fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, jet fuel and other hydrocarbons. It works by forming a thin aqueous film over the fuel surface, helping to cool the fire, suppress vapours and prevent re-ignition. AFFF has historically been used at airports, military sites, fuel terminals, refineries and industrial facilities. Many older formulations contain PFAS, including PFOS- and PFOA-related substances, which are highly persistent in the environment. Because of contamination risks to soil and water, PFAS-containing AFFF is increasingly restricted or phased out, creating a need for safe collection, treatment and destruction of legacy foam stocks.