Flame retardant foam concentrates

Abstract

A foam-forming concentrate is provided. The foam-forming concentrate includes a surfactant component. The surfactant component comprises an anionic surfactant and an ampholytic surfactant. The foam-forming concentrate further includes a solvent component that includes a polar alkyl ether. The foam-forming concentrate further includes a gelling component selected from the group consisting of a carbohydrate, a synthetic hydrocolloid, or a combination thereof. The gelling component is substantially insoluble in the solvent component. The foam-forming concentrate has a viscosity of not greater than 2,000 centipoise. The foam-forming concentrate at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) in water is capable of extinguishing fire fuelled by heptane at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute for a period of less than 5 minutes, as determined according to UL 162.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to co-provisional application No. 63 / 320,086, filed on March 15, 2022, and is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The field of the invention is compositions and methods for fire retardant foam concentrates and their use for extinguishing fires. Background Art

[0004] The Background Description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0005] All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. To the extent that a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0006] Firefighting foam concentrates are a mixture of blowing agents, solvents and other additives. These concentrates are intended to be mixed with water at concentrations of 0.1% to 6%, depending on the class of foam (e.g., class A can be 0.1% to 1% or even more, and class B can be 3% to 6% or even more), and then projected onto the surface of a burning liquid (e.g., heptane).

[0007] The foam can be spread onto a liquid chemical fire to form a thick blanket of foam that knocks down the fire and then extinguishes the fire by suffocation. These foams can also be used as vapor suppression foams, which can be applied to non-burning but volatile liquids, such as volatile liquid or solid chemicals and chemical spills to prevent the escape of toxic, noxious, flammable or other hazardous vapors. These foams can also be used on structural fires and brush or forest fires.

[0008] The various components of the foaming concentrate contribute to the different physical and chemical properties of the premix and the foam. Selective surfactants can provide low surface tension, high foaming properties and good film stability. Organic solvents can be included to promote the solubility of the surfactant, to promote the shelf life of the concentrate, and to stabilize the aqueous foam. Thickeners can be used to increase the viscosity and stability of the foam. Other agents and additives known to those skilled in the art can also be used.

[0009] A specific class of firefighting foam concentrates is called Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF or AF 3AFFF concentrates have the quality of being able to spread an aqueous film on the surface of hydrocarbon liquids, thereby increasing the speed of extinguishing. This is made possible by organofluorinated surfactants, such as the perfluoroalkyl surfactants (PFAS) contained in AFFF. Although these surfactants produce very low surface tension values ​​in solution (15-20 dynes cm -1 ), which allows foams to spread on the surface of hydrocarbon liquids, but various regulatory agencies recommend against or prohibit the use of foams that intentionally include fluorinated surfactants. In an effort to avoid these restrictions (i.e., those related to PFAS), some manufacturers intentionally use the same equipment as their PFAS-containing foams to make their "PFAS-free" foams to allow their "PFAS-free" foams to benefit from including any residual PFAS that remains on the equipment while believing that they did not intentionally include PFAS. To this end, these manufacturers continue to sell their foams that include this residual PFAS as "PFAS-free" foams.

[0010] The aforementioned foams fail to exhibit the low viscosity necessary for use in conventional fire suppression equipment, or fail to extinguish fires at the desired rate. Importantly, conventional foams may include glues in order to avoid the deliberate use of fluorinated and chlorinated compounds. However, the amount of glue necessary to effectively extinguish a fire results in an increase in viscosity, which makes the foam composition incompatible with conventional fire suppression equipment. Therefore, although the inclusion of glue enables the formation of an aqueous film-forming foam, such a benefit is contrary to the increase in viscosity and makes the formulation unsuitable for use. In addition, the stability of PFAS-free concentrates containing glue is problematic at least in some cases.

[0011] Thus, even though a variety of compositions for extinguishing fires are known in the art, all or nearly all of them have several disadvantages.Therefore, there is still a need for improved foam-forming compositions and methods for the same. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present subject matter relates to a variety of foam-forming concentrates, foam solutions, and foams comprising or formed therefrom. The foam-forming concentrates are capable of forming foam solutions and foams to extinguish fires. In particular, the foam-forming concentrates and resulting foam solutions, respectively, exhibit reduced viscosity while still rapidly extinguishing fires. In addition, the foam formed from the foam-forming concentrates can form a continuous layer that is capable of reforming after causing a rupture in the continuous layer (i.e., the foam is capable of self-healing). Still further, the foam-forming concentrates exhibit desirable storage characteristics (e.g., lack of phase separation) and excellent miscibility with water to form foams.

[0013] In various embodiments, the foam-forming concentrate is suitable for use with conventional fire suppression equipment and can thus be characterized as a "drop-in" foam-forming concentrate, at least because its reduced viscosity prior to dilution with water allows its dilution to be carried out using conventional mixtures that are part of conventional fire suppression equipment. The foam-forming concentrate may also be referred to as a foam-forming composition. Depending on the application, equipment, and technique, the desired concentrate may be adjusted to have a low, medium, or high expansion rate. For example, the foam-forming concentrates contemplated herein typically have a reduced foam expansion (e.g., not greater than 6) compared to conventional foam concentrates including fluorinated surfactants. It is believed that the reduced foam expansion (1) reduces the effect of wind on the foam during application of the foam solution and thereby improves the delivery of the foam solution from the applicator to the target, and (2) improves the ability of a continuous foam layer to reform after a breach in the continuous layer (i.e., improves the self-healing of the foam).

[0014] In one aspect of the inventive subject matter, the inventors contemplate that the foam-forming concentrate includes a surfactant component, a gelling component, and a solvent component. The gelling component is selected from a carbohydrate (e.g., a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, a polysaccharide, etc.), a synthetic hydrocolloid, or a combination thereof. The foam-forming concentrate has a viscosity of no greater than 2,000 centipoise (e.g., no greater than 800 centipoise). The foam-forming concentrate at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) in water (e.g., fresh water, salt water, brackish water, etc.) is capable of extinguishing a fire fueled by heptane at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute in a period of less than 5 minutes, as determined according to UL 162.

[0015] It is contemplated that the surfactant component includes anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants. In various embodiments, the surfactant component further includes a nonionic surfactant. The surfactant is present in an amount of at least 5 (e.g., 7, 8, or 10) weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant is selected from alkyl ammonium sulfate, alkyl sodium sulfate, alkyl diphenyl oxide disulfonate, carboxylic acid surfactant, dioctyl sulfosuccinate, or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the anionic surfactant includes alkyl ammonium sulfate (e.g., ammonium dodecyl sulfate) and alkyl sodium sulfate (e.g., sodium dodecyl sulfate).

[0017] In various embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from betaine, alkyl hydroxysultaine, alkylamine oxide, alkylaminopropionic acid, or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant comprises a betaine, such as an alkylamido betaine (e.g., cocamidopropyl betaine).

[0018] In some embodiments, the nonionic surfactant is selected from alkyl polyglucosides, silicon-based surfactants, branched secondary alcohol ethoxylates, alkoxylated polyols, block copolymers of two or more of polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and polyoxybutylene, or combinations thereof. In these and other embodiments, the nonionic surfactant comprises alkyl polyglucosides.

[0019] Referring now to the gelling component, it is contemplated that the gelling component is substantially insoluble in the solvent component (e.g., as determined in accordance with ASTM D 3132-84). The carbohydrate may include a polysaccharide (e.g., a modified starch). The gelling component is present in an amount of at least 0.1 wt % based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0020] Now mention the solvent component, it is expected that the solvent component includes polar alkyl ether.In certain embodiments, the polar alkyl ether is selected from diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, triethylene glycol ethyl ether, triethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, propylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether or its combination.In these and other embodiments, the polar alkyl ether includes diethylene glycol monobutyl ether and ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether.It is expected herein that the gelling component and the polar alkyl ether can cooperate during the formation of the foam-forming concentrate and provide the partial hydration of the gelling component to control the viscosity and stability of the foam-forming concentrate.Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the high organic solvent to water ratio of the foam-forming concentrate provides the following solvent-rich concentrate: it is suitable for managing free water content so that the hydration of the gelling component is limited to only partial hydration. Diluting the foam foaming concentrate with a large amount of free water allows complete hydration of the included gelling component to form the foam solution. It is expected that an increase in free water concentration (e.g., after combining with water prior to application) provides substantially complete hydration of the gelling component. Substantially complete hydration of the gelling component provides improved foam formation, extended drain time, self-healing, and fire extinguishing.

[0021] In various embodiments, the solvent component further comprises an alkylene glycol, water, or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the solvent component further comprises an alkylene glycol and water. The alkylene glycol may comprise propylene glycol.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, the inventors contemplate that the foam solution comprises or is formed of the foam-forming concentrate and water (e.g., fresh water, salt water, brackish water, etc.). When applied to the target, the foam is formed by the foam solution. The foam may extend as a continuous layer. When a break is formed in the continuous layer by an external force applied to the continuous layer, the foam is capable of reforming the continuous layer. The foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate in an amount of at least 1 wt % based on the total weight of the foam is capable of extinguishing a fire fueled by heptane in a period of less than 5 minutes, as determined according to UL162.

[0023] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The inventors have found a variety of foam-forming concentrates, foam solutions, and foams formed therefrom. The foam-forming concentrates may also be referred to as foam-forming compositions. The foam-forming concentrates are capable of forming foams to extinguish fires. In particular, the foam-forming concentrates exhibit reduced viscosity, while the resulting foams are capable of rapidly extinguishing fires. The foam-forming concentrates have a viscosity of no more than 2,000, no more than 1,000 centipoise, no more than 900 centipoise, no more than 800 centipoise, no more than 700 centipoise, no more than 600 centipoise, no more than 500 centipoise, or even lower. The reduced viscosity provides improved compatibility with existing fire-fighting equipment and systems, such as those designed for use with conventional fluorinated foam concentrates. Such low viscosity is particularly significant because the compositions shown herein include polysaccharides / gels as gelling agents, but do not include PFAS surfactants as functional ingredients. Fluorosurfactant foams typically drain fast and rely on films formed at the foam / fuel interface by PFAS, fluorosurfactants, or fluorinated polymers to provide vapor barriers and enhance extinguishing times. Fluorine-free foams rely on slow draining foams that retrain water longer to provide a vapor barrier and prolong burnback. Polymer thickeners, hydrocolloids, and other carbohydrates drain more slowly and create a polymer-rich barrier near the fuel surface to act as a vapor barrier on the combustible fuel surface.

[0025] With respect to being able to rapidly extinguish a fire, the foam-forming concentrate that forms the foam solution in water (e.g., fresh water, salt water, brackish water, etc.) at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) (e.g., 3%, 6% or more) is able to extinguish a fire fueled by heptane in a period of less than 5 minutes (e.g., less than 4.5, less than 4, less than 3.5, less than 3, less than 2.5, less than 2, less than 1.5, or less than 1 minute), as determined according to UL 162 (Class B). In addition, the foam formed from or including the foam-forming concentrate can form a continuous layer that is able to reform after a rupture is caused in the continuous layer (i.e., the foam is able to self-heal), which in turn leads to improved fire extinguishing.

[0026] In addition, the foam-forming concentrate diluted to a concentration of at least 0.1% (w / w) (e.g., 0.5%, 1% or more) in water (e.g., fresh water, salt water, brackish water, etc.) to form the foam solution is capable of extinguishing a fire fueled by heptane in a time period of less than 1 minute (e.g., less than 55, less than 50, less than 45, less than 40, less than 35, less than 30, less than 25, or less than 20 seconds) as determined according to UL 162.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the inventors expect that the foam-forming concentrate includes a surfactant component, a gelling component selected from carbohydrates (e.g., one or more starches and / or glues), a synthetic hydrocolloid, or a combination thereof, and a solvent component. The term "component" used herein with respect to surfactants, gelling materials, and solvents is used only as a placeholder to facilitate understanding of the composition and its ingredients, as well as the amounts and ratios of the ingredients, so that the surfactant component may include one or more surfactants, substantially consist of one or more surfactants, or consist of one or more surfactants, or be one or more surfactants; the gelling component may include one or more gelling materials, substantially consist of one or more gelling materials, or consist of one or more gelling materials, or be one or more gelling materials; and the solvent component may include one or more solvents, substantially consist of one or more solvents, or consist of one or more solvents, or be one or more solvents. For this purpose, any ingredient mentioned herein as included in the component is also included in the foam-forming concentrate. The foam-forming concentrate may include a variety of other components or ingredients as described in more detail below, as long as the component or ingredient is compatible with the composition.

[0028] It is contemplated that the surfactant component includes anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants. The anionic surfactant and the amphoteric surfactant can be present in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:10, 5:1 to 1:1 or 3:1 to 2:1. In various embodiments, the surfactant component further includes a nonionic surfactant. The anionic surfactant and the nonionic surfactant can be present in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:10, 3:1 to 1:3 or 2:1 to 1:1. However, it is understood that the surfactant component may include any other surfactant, such as a cationic surfactant. Based on the gross weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the surfactant component is present in an amount of at least 1 wt%, at least 2 wt%, at least 3 wt%, at least 4 wt%, at least 5 wt%, at least 10 wt%, or even more.

[0029] The anionic surfactant may be any anionic surfactant known in the art as long as it is compatible with the foam-forming concentrate. Suitable anionic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, methyl ester sulfonates, hydrolyzed keratin, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, alkyl ether sulfates, sodium 4-(1'heptylnonyl)benzenesulfonate, sodium dioctylsulfosuccinate, sodium octylbenzenesulfonate, ammonium alkyl sulfates (e.g., ammonium dodecyl sulfate and the like), sodium alkyl sulfates (e.g., sodium decyl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium hexadecyl sulfate and the like), sodium laureth sulfate, alkyl ester sulfonates, alkyl ether sulfonates, alkyl ether sulfates, alkali metal alkyl sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, alkyl disulfonates, alkyl aryl disulfonates, alkyl disulfates, alcohol polypropoxylated sulfates, alcohol polyethoxylated sulfates, carboxylic acid surfactants, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. As used herein, the term "derivative" refers to any compound prepared from one of the identified compounds, for example, by replacing one atom in the listed compound with another atom or group of atoms, or by rearranging two or more atoms in the listed compound.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant is selected from alkyl ammonium sulfate, alkyl sodium sulfate, alkyl diphenyl oxide disulfonate, carboxylic acid surfactant, dioctyl sulfosuccinate, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant includes alkyl ammonium sulfate (e.g., ammonium dodecyl sulfate) and alkyl sodium sulfate (e.g., sodium dodecyl sulfate). In other embodiments, the anionic surfactant includes a carboxylic acid surfactant.

[0031] The phrase "carboxylic acid surfactant" used herein refers to a surfactant including a carboxylic acid moiety and / or a carboxylate (ester) moiety. Generally, carboxylic acid has the formula R-COOH, wherein R can represent any number of different groups, including alkyl, arylalkyl, cycloalkyl, aromatic or heterocyclic groups, all of which can be saturated or unsaturated and substituted or unsubstituted. Carboxylic acid can have one, two, three or more carboxyl groups. Suitable carboxylic acids include carboxylic acid surfactants. In some embodiments, suitable carboxylic acid surfactants include those classified as anionic surfactants. In other embodiments, suitable carboxylic acid surfactants include those classified as amphoteric surfactants. For example, the carboxylic acid surfactant may contain, for example, at least one alkylamine moiety, at least one alkyl carboxylate moiety, at least one alkylamide moiety, at least one sulfonate (ester) moiety, and / or at least one alkoxylate moiety.

[0032] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants include those described by Formula I:

[0033] (R 1 )(R 2 )X(R 3 COOH)(I)

[0034] In certain embodiments, in Formula I, R 1 and R 2 can be absent, an alkyl moiety, an alkyl carboxylate moiety, an alkyl amide moiety, an alkyl sulfonate moiety, or an alkoxylate moiety; X can be N, NH, C═O, or CH 2 ; and R 3 It may be an alkyl or alkyl sulfonate moiety.

[0035] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants include those described by Formula II:

[0036] (R 1 )(R 2 )N(R 3 COOH)(II)

[0037] In Formula II, for example, R 1 and R 2 can be independently an alkyl moiety, an alkyl carboxylate moiety, an alkyl amide moiety, an alkyl sulfonate moiety, or an alkoxylate moiety, and R 3 It may be an alkyl or alkyl sulfonate moiety.

[0038] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by formula (III):

[0039] (R 1 )C(O)(R3 COOH)(III)

[0040] In formula (III), for example, R 1 may be an alkoxylate moiety, and R 3 It may be an alkyl or alkyl sulfonate moiety.

[0041] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by formula (IV):

[0042] (R 1 )CH 2 (R 3 COOOH)(IV)

[0043] In formula (IV), for example, R 1 may be an alkoxylate moiety, and R 3 Can be absent, an alkyl group, or an alkyl sulfonate moiety.

[0044] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by Formula (V):

[0045]

[0046] In formula (V), R 1 Can be C 8 H 17 , and the nitrogen can be protonated or unprotonated.

[0047] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by Formula (VI):

[0048]

[0049] In formula (VI), R 1 and R 2 Can be C 8 H 17 , and the nitrogen can be protonated or unprotonated.

[0050] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by Formula (VII):

[0051]

[0052] In formula (VII), R may be C 11 H 23 ; n may be 1-12 (eg, 3); and the sulfonate may be in the form of a sodium salt.

[0053] Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid surfactants further include those described by Formula (VIII):

[0054]

[0055] In formula (VIII), R may be C 12 H 25 , C 13 H 27 , or a mixture thereof; and n may be 1-12 (eg, 3).

[0056] The anionic surfactant may be present in any amount suitable for the foam-forming concentrate. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least 1 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, or at least 40 wt%. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than 99 wt%, no more than 80 wt%, no more than 70 wt%, no more than 60 wt%, or no more than 50 wt%. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 1 to 99 wt%, 10 to 80 wt%, 20 to 70 wt%, 30 to 60 wt%, or 40 to 50 wt%. Based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 0.01 to 10 wt%, 0.05 to 9 wt%, 0.1 to 8 wt%, 0.5 to 7 wt%, or 0.5 to 6 wt%.

[0057] The amphoteric surfactant may be any amphoteric surfactant known in the art, provided that it is compatible with the foam-forming concentrate. Suitable amphoteric surfactants may include, but are not limited to, alkylamine oxides, betaines (e.g., modified betaines, alkyl betaines, alkylamido betaines, alkylamidopropyl betaines, or alkyl sulfo betaines), alkyl hydroxysulfo betaines, dihydroxyalkyl glycinates, alkyl ampho acetates, phospholipids, aminopropionic acid, iminopropionic acid, quaternized compounds, alkylaminopropionic acid, alkyliminomonopropionic acid, alkyliminodipropionic acid, dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine, amine oxides, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. As used herein, the term "derivative" refers to any compound prepared from one of the identified compounds, for example, by replacing one atom in the listed compound with another atom or group of atoms, or by rearranging two or more atoms in the listed compound.

[0058] In various embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from betaine, alkylhydroxysulfobetaine, alkylamine oxide, alkylaminopropionic acid, or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant comprises a betaine, such as an alkylamidobetaine (e.g., cocoamidopropyl betaine).

[0059] The amphoteric surfactant may be present in any amount suitable for the foam-forming concentrate. Based on the gross weight of the surfactant component, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of at least 1 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least 20 wt%, at least 25 wt%, or at least 30 wt%. Based on the gross weight of the surfactant component, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than 99 wt%, no more than 75 wt%, no more than 65 wt%, no more than 55 wt%, or no more than 45 wt%. Based on the gross weight of the surfactant component, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of 1 to 99 wt%, 10 to 75 wt%, 20 to 65 wt%, 25 to 55 wt%, or 30 to 45 wt%. Based on the gross weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of 0.01 to 10 wt%, 0.05 to 9 wt%, 0.1 to 8 wt%, 0.5 to 7 wt%, or 0.5 to 6 wt%.

[0060] The nonionic surfactant may be any nonionic surfactant known in the art as long as it is compatible with the foam-forming concentrate. Suitable nonionic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, alkoxylates (e.g., alkoxylated nonylphenol condensates, such as poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-(4-nonylphenyl)-ω-hydroxy branched), alkylphenols, ethoxylated alkylamines, ethoxylated oleates, tall oil, ethoxylated fatty acids, alkyl glucosides, polyglucosides, alkyl polyglucosides, sorbitan esters, methyl glucoside esters, ethoxylated amines, ethoxylated diamines, polyglycerol esters, alkyl ethoxylates, polypropoxylated and / or polyethoxylated alcohols, linear alcohol alkoxylates, branched secondary alcohol ethoxylates, linear nonylphenol ethoxylates, dioxanes, epoxy ethane, polyethylene glycol, ethoxylated castor oil, polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether, triethylene glycol dodecyl ether, ethylene oxide, decylamine oxide, dodecylamine oxide, alkylamine oxide, ethoxylated amide, alkoxylated fatty acid, alkoxylated alcohol (e.g., dodecyl alcohol ethoxylate, ethoxylated nonylphenol), alkoxylated polyol (e.g., ethoxylated polyol, propoxylated polyol and butoxylated polyol), block copolymers of two or more of polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and polyoxybutylene, ethoxylated fatty amine, ethoxylated alkylamine (e.g., coconut oil alkylamine ethoxylate), any derivative thereof, or any combination thereof. As used herein, the term "derivative" refers to any compound prepared from one of the identified compounds, for example, by replacing one atom in the listed compound with another atom or group of atoms, or by rearranging two or more atoms in the listed compound.

[0061] Other non-limiting examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include: ethoxylated linear alcohols, ethoxylated alkylphenols, fatty acid esters, amine and amide derivatives, alkyl polyglucosides, ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers, polyols and ethoxylated polyols, thiols (mercaptans) and derivatives, ethoxylated thiols, amide-, ester- and ether-amines, oxy- and ethoxy-amines, alkanol-amides, amino-acids, amines, fatty amines, quaternary alkylammonium (quat), or combinations thereof. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, sorbitan trioleate, sorbitan tristearate, propylene glycol monostearate, glycerol monostearate, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monostearate, diethylene glycol monolaurate, sorbitan monolaurate, glyceryl stearate, polyoxyethylene (2) hexadecyl ether, polyoxyethylene (10) hexadecyl ether, polyoxyethylene (2) hexadecyl ether, polyoxyethylene (6) tridecyl ether, polyoxyethylene (12) tridecyl ether tall oil ester (renex), polyoxyethylene (15) tridecyl ether, or a combination thereof.

[0062] In some embodiments, the nonionic surfactant is selected from alkyl polyglucosides, silicon-based surfactants, branched secondary alcohol ethoxylates, alkoxylated polyols, two or more block copolymers of polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and polyoxybutylene, or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the nonionic surfactant includes alkyl polyglucosides. Non-limiting examples of suitable alkyl glucosides, polyglucosides and alkyl polyglucosides are described in, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,207,932, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole. Therefore, suitable nonionic surfactants include modified (e.g., alkylated) carbohydrates, and especially modified starches, which can be partially hydrolyzed (e.g., to have a dextrose equivalent between 2-5, or between 5-8, or between 7-12, or between 10-15, or between 12-20, or between 17-25). In addition, it should be understood that the modification of the carbohydrate will provide a certain degree of hydrophobicity to the carbohydrate, so that the function of the surfactant can be achieved. Thus, the modification will include the addition of alkyl groups having 2-6 carbon atoms, 4-8 carbon atoms, 6-10 carbon atoms, 8-12 carbon atoms and even longer chain lengths. In still further embodiments, and particularly where the carbohydrate is starch, it is generally preferred that the starch granules will include linear and branched carbohydrate chains (e.g., having at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25% branching), and / or that the granules will have a relatively small average particle size (e.g., between 10-25 microns, or between 20-40 microns, or between 25-60 microns, or between 50-100 microns).

[0063] Non-limiting examples of suitable silicone-based surfactants include glycerol-modified silicones, sugar-modified silicones, sugar alcohol-modified silicones, carboxylic acid-modified silicones, polyglycerol-modified silicone elastomers (e.g., polyglycerolated silicone elastomers), silicone-based surfactants containing organic polyoxyalkylene groups, silicone-based nonionic surfactants in which alkyl branches, linear silicone branches, siloxane dendron branches, or the like are provided together with hydrophilic groups, polyoxyalkylene-modified silicones (e.g., polyether-modified silicones), polyether-modified silicone elastomers (e.g., polyoxyalkylated silicone elastomers), or combinations thereof. It should be understood that the silicone-based surfactants can be utilized to provide vapor suppression of polar fuels to the foam formed from the foam-forming concentrate.

[0064] The nonionic surfactant may be present in any amount suitable for the foam-forming concentrate. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the nonionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least 1 wt%, at least 5 wt%, at least 10 wt%, at least 12.5 wt%, or at least 15 wt%. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the nonionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than 99 wt%, no more than 60 wt%, no more than 50 wt%, no more than 40 wt%, or no more than 30 wt%. Based on the total weight of the surfactant component, the nonionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 1 to 99 wt%, 5 to 60 wt%, 10 to 50 wt%, 12.5 to 40 wt%, or 15 to 30 wt%. Based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the nonionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 0.01 to 10 wt%, 0.05 to 9 wt%, 0.1 to 8 wt%, 0.5 to 7 wt%, or 0.5 to 6 wt%.

[0065] Now referring to gelling components, it is expected that the gelling components are substantially insoluble in the solvent components (e.g., measured according to ASTM D3132-84). However, it is understood that other test methods of solubility can be used. The term "substantially" used herein about the solubility of the gelling components means that the gelling components are dissolved in the water of the foam-forming concentrate less than 10 wt %, less than 5 wt %, less than 1 wt %, less than 0.5 wt %, less than 0.1 wt % or less than 0.01 wt %. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the gelling components provide improved vapor suppression to the foam formed by the foam-forming composition. The improved vapor suppression reduces the occurrence of backdrafts after the fire has been initially extinguished. In practice, this allows the user of the foam-forming concentrate to continue to handle other fires in the knowledge that the occurrence of backdrafts is reduced, and any rupture that can occur to the continuous forming layer can be self-repaired, thereby maintaining vapor suppression. In various embodiments, compared with conventional foams without the gelling components, the foam formed by the foam-forming composition provides improved vapor suppression, as measured according to UL 162. The gelling component is present in an amount of at least 0.1 wt %, at least 0.5 wt %, at least 1 wt %, at least 1.5 wt %, or at least 2 wt %, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0066] In various embodiments, the gelling component comprises an aqueous colloid (e.g., an aqueous colloid carbohydrate or a synthetic aqueous colloid). As contemplated herein, the aqueous colloid absorbs water to the extent that it is water-swellable. Generally, the aqueous colloid is a hydrophilic polymer derived from a variety of different sources including plants (e.g., locust bean gum, carrageenan, pectin, starch), animals (e.g., chitosan), microorganisms (e.g., xanthan gum), or chemically modified natural carbohydrates (e.g., carboxymethyl cellulose). Synthetic aqueous colloids may include hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM), polyacrylic acid, polyethylene oxide (PEO), or a combination thereof. Aqueous colloids may be incorporated into the foam-forming concentrate to control the rheology and structure of the resulting foam. In an aqueous environment, the aqueous colloid swells, increasing its hydrodynamic volume, thereby increasing the viscosity of the foam-forming concentrate or the resulting foam solution. Therefore, the inventors were surprised to find that a foam-forming concentrate with a desired low viscosity can be prepared while also enabling the resulting foam to rapidly extinguish fires. To this end, an important aspect of the hydrocolloid (and other gelling agents) is its ability to absorb water when in use (i.e., to swell in the presence of water), but remain substantially water-insoluble in the concentrate form to provide rheological control and structure to the resulting foam. In particular, it is believed that the hydrocolloid can be added to the foam-forming concentrate to improve foam stability by reducing drainage, or to improve the flashback performance of the foam. The hydrocolloid can be present in an amount of at least 10 weight percent, at least 20 weight percent, at least 30 weight percent, at least 40 weight percent, or at least 50 weight percent, based on the total weight of the gelling component. The hydrocolloid can be present in an amount of at least 0.1 weight percent, at least 0.5 weight percent, at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, or at least 2 weight percent, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0067] Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the hydrocolloid provides water-retaining properties that result in improved foam without or with limited amounts of fluorinated surfactants. In various embodiments, the foam-forming concentrate is substantially free of fluorinated surfactants. The term "substantially" as used herein with respect to fluorinated surfactants means that the foam-forming concentrate includes less than 1 wt %, less than 0.5 wt %, less than 0.1 wt %, less than 0.01 wt %, less than 0.001 wt %, or less than 0.0001 wt % of the fluorinated surfactant. In these and other embodiments, the method of forming the foam-forming concentrate does not utilize equipment for forming any composition including a fluorinated surfactant. However, it should be understood that the foam-forming concentrate can be used with equipment including residual fluorinated surfactants, and the foam-forming concentrate can benefit from such residual fluorinated surfactants unintentionally.

[0068] The gelling component may include carbohydrates, such as polysaccharides, modified polysaccharides, or combinations thereof. The polysaccharides or modified polysaccharides may be hydrocolloids. In various embodiments, the polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of modified starch, agar, sodium alginate, carrageenan, gum guaicum, neem gum, pistacia lentiscus, gum chatti, caranna, galactomannan, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, guar gum, welan gum, rhamsam gum, locust bean gum, β-glucan, cellulose, methylcellulose, chicle gum, kino gum, dammar gum, gum arabic, glucomannan, mastic gum, spruce gum, tara gum, pysllium seed husks, gellan gum, xanthan gum, acacia gum, cassia gum gum), diutangum, fenugreek gum, ghatti gum, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, karaya gum, konjac gum, pectin, propylene glycol alginate, or a combination thereof. The modified polysaccharide may be any of the above polysaccharides that undergo etherification, esterification, amidation, carboxymethylation, oxidative condensation with carbonyl compounds, synthesis of grafted or block copolymers, or a combination thereof, and the like as described in Desbrieres J. et al., 10-Chemically Modified Polysaccharides With Applications in Nanomedicine, Biomass as Renewable Raw Material to Obtain Bioproducts of High-Tech Value, 2018, pp. 351-399, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In various embodiments, the modified polysaccharide may exhibit properties similar to those of a surfactant. The carbohydrate may be present in an amount of at least 0.1 wt %, at least 0.5 wt %, at least 1 wt %, at least 1.5 wt %, or at least 2 wt %, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0069] In various embodiments, the modified starch is selected from hydroxypropyl starch, starch acetate, monostarch phosphate, distarch phosphate, alkyl (e.g., C 4 , C 6 , C 8 , C10 , C 12 , C 14 ) succinate starch, distarch adipate, hydroxypropylated distarch phosphate, phosphorylated distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch adipate, or a combination thereof. The modified starch may be present in an amount of at least 10 wt %, at least 20 wt %, at least 30 wt %, at least 40 wt %, or at least 50 wt %, based on the total weight of the carbohydrate. The modified starch may be present in an amount of at least 0.1 wt %, at least 0.5 wt %, at least 1 wt %, at least 1.5 wt %, or at least 2 wt %, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the polysaccharide comprises the modified starch. In these and other embodiments, the gelling component comprises the modified starch and at least one additional polysaccharide. In some embodiments, the gelling component comprises the polysaccharide and at least one additional polysaccharide. The at least one additional polysaccharide is selected from: agar, sodium alginate, carrageenan, guaiac gum, neem gum, pistacia gum, gati gum, karana resin, galactomannan, tragacanth gum, karaya gum, guar gum, welan gum, gum arabic, neutral gum, locust bean gum, beta-glucan, cellulose, methylcellulose, chicle gum, eucalyptus gum, dammar gum, glucomannan, gum matti, spruce gum, tara gum, psyllium seed husk, gellan gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, cassia gum, ditto gum, fenugreek gum, ghatti gum, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, karaya gum, konjac gum, pectin, propylene glycol alginate agar, or a combination thereof. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the modified starch and the at least one additional polysaccharide act synergistically to impart improved foam stability. The additional polysaccharide may be present in an amount of at least 10 weight percent, at least 20 weight percent, at least 30 weight percent, at least 40 weight percent, or at least 50 weight percent, based on the total weight of the gelling component. The additional polysaccharide may be present in an amount of at least 0.1 weight percent, at least 0.5 weight percent, at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, or at least 2 weight percent, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0071] Referring now to the solvent component, it is contemplated that the solvent component includes an organic solvent, water, or a combination thereof. An organic solvent may be included in the foam foaming concentrate to reduce the viscosity of the concentrate (e.g., by controlling the hydration of the hydrocolloid), to promote solubility of surfactants, to prevent freezing, to improve the storage stability of the concentrate, and to stabilize the resulting foam. Suitable organic solvents include, but are not limited to, polar alkyl ethers, including glycols and glycol ethers, such as diethylene glycol monoalkyl ethers, ethylene glycol monoalkyl ethers, propylene glycol monoalkyl ethers, dipropylene glycol monoalkyl ethers, such as diethylene glycol n-butyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-propyl ether, hexylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monopropyl ether, propylene glycol, glycerol, polyethylene glycol (PEG) and sorbitol, 1-butoxyethoxy-2-propanol and higher alkyl glycols, such as hexylene glycol, glycerol, and the like are described in multiple U.S. patents, including U.S. Patent Nos. 3,579,446, 3,422,011, 3,457,172 and 5,616,273, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. The solvent component can be present in an amount of 30 to 99 weight percent, 40 to 95 weight percent, 50 to 90 weight percent, 55 to 85 weight percent, or 60 to 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the solvent component includes a polar alkyl ether. It is contemplated herein that the polar alkyl ether promotes the self-repair of the continuous foam layer formed by the foam-forming concentrate. In addition, it is believed that the polar alkyl ether can be used in the foam-forming concentrate to control the hydration of the gelling component by forming a partially hydrated carbohydrate or synthetic aqueous colloid. The partially hydrated carbohydrate or synthetic aqueous colloid can provide a balance between forming the foam and maintaining the dispersibility of the foam, thereby promoting the self-repair of the continuous foam layer. In particular, it is contemplated herein that the gelling component and the polar alkyl ether can cooperate to provide partial hydration of the gelling component during the formation of the foam-forming concentrate. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the ratio of the organic solvent to water of the foam-forming concentrate provides a solvent-rich concentrate as follows: it is suitable for managing the free water content so as to limit the hydration of the gelling component to only partial hydration. Diluting the foam foaming concentrate with a large amount of free water allows complete hydration of the included gelling component to form the foam solution. It is expected that an increase in free water concentration (e.g., after combining with water prior to application) provides substantially complete hydration of the gelling component. Substantially complete hydration of the gelling component provides improved foam formation, extended discharge time, self-healing, and fire extinguishing.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the polar alkyl ether is selected from diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, triethylene glycol ethyl ether, triethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, propylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether or a combination thereof. In these and other embodiments, the polar alkyl ether comprises diethylene glycol monobutyl ether and ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the polar alkyl ether can be present in an amount of at least 1 wt %, at least 5 wt %, at least 10 wt %, at least 12.5 wt % or at least 15 wt %. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the polar alkyl ether can be present in an amount of not more than 99 wt %, not more than 60 wt %, not more than 50 wt %, not more than 40 wt % or not more than 30 wt %. Based on the total weight of the solvent component, the polar alkyl ether can be present in an amount of 1 to 99 wt%, 5 to 60 wt%, 10 to 50 wt%, 12.5 to 40 wt%, or 15 to 30 wt%. It should be understood that the amount of polar alkyl ether utilized can depend on the hydration of the gelling component, which can be affected by the amount, pH, salt content, functionality of the gelling component, and the like.

[0074] In various embodiments, in addition to the polar alkyl ether, the solvent component further includes an alkylene glycol and water. In certain embodiments, the alkylene glycol includes ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the solvent component includes propylene glycol. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the alkylene glycol can be present in an amount of at least 1 wt %, at least 5 wt %, at least 10 wt %, at least 12.5 wt % or at least 15 wt %. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the alkylene glycol can be present in an amount of no more than 99 wt %, no more than 60 wt %, no more than 50 wt %, no more than 40 wt % or no more than 30 wt %. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the alkylene glycol can be present in an amount of 1 to 99 wt %, 5 to 60 wt %, 10 to 50 wt %, 12.5 to 40 wt % or 15 to 30 wt %.

[0075] Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the water can be present in an amount of at least 1 % by weight, at least 10 % by weight, at least 20 % by weight, at least 40 % by weight or at least 50 % by weight. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the water can be present in an amount of no more than 99 % by weight, no more than 95 % by weight, no more than 85 % by weight, no more than 75 % by weight or no more than 65 % by weight. Based on the gross weight of the solvent component, the water can be present in an amount of 1 to 99 % by weight, 10 to 95 % by weight, 20 to 85 % by weight, 40 to 75 % by weight or 50 to 65 % by weight.

[0076] The foam forming concentrate may further include a plurality of micron-sized particles or nanoparticles. The plurality of particles may provide improved storage stability of the foam forming concentrate. It is expected that, before diluting the foam forming concentrate with water, the plurality of particles may cooperate with the solvent component to limit the complete hydration of the gelling component and suspend the gelling component in the foam forming concentrate. Non-limiting examples of suitable particles include treated or untreated fumed silica, zeolites, clays (e.g., bentonite and lamponite), silicon, alumina, magnesium oxide, quartz, graphite, silicon carbide, nanoparticles and the like. In view of the expected interaction with the solvent component and in the case where the particles are treated, it is particularly expected that the treatment will introduce hydrophobicity (e.g., via silanization with hydrophobic silanes such as dimethyldichlorosilane) to the particles, thereby limiting or even preventing the hydration of the gelling component in the concentrate. Unexpectedly, such a reduction has been shown to increase the stability and storage life of the concentrate. Based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the plurality of particles can be present in an amount of at least 0.01%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.09%, or at least 0.1%. Based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the plurality of particles can be present in an amount of no greater than 5%, no greater than 2%, no greater than 1%, no greater than 0.5%, or no greater than 0.2%. Based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, the plurality of particles can be present in an amount of 0.01 to 5%, 0.05 to 2%, 0.07 to 1%, 0.09 to 0.5%, or 0.1 to 0.2%.

[0077] The foam-forming concentrate may contain a variety of additives, such as fillers (e.g., urea, citric acid, alkanolamines), chelating agents, pH buffers, anti-corrosion additives, anti-microbial additives, preservatives, divalent ion salts, foam stabilizers, humectants, flame retardants, and the like, as are well known in the art, as described, for example, in "A Fire fighter's Guide to Foam" published by National Foam, Inc. or in BS EN 13565-1 and BS EN 13565-2 or in the NFPA Standards, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0078] The foam-forming concentrate can be prepared by mixing or combining its ingredients (e.g., the solvent component, the surfactant component, the hydrocolloid component, and any additional desired ingredients together). For example, the foam-forming concentrate can be prepared by providing the solvent component, such as a fixed amount in a reaction vessel or other container, or a stream of the solvent component flowing through a hose or pipe, and then adding other ingredients (e.g., surfactant component, hydrocolloid component, etc.) to the solvent component. Other ingredients can be added to the solvent component individually or as one or more mixtures and in any desired order. Further, portions of the solvent component can be added individually or as one or more mixtures in any desired order.

[0079] The foam forming concentrate can be utilized by applying the foam forming concentrate to a foam generating device known in the fire fighting field. Such a device may include a conventional hose for conveying a water stream, and ancillary equipment for injecting, educting, or otherwise adding the foam forming concentrate to the water stream. Water can flow through a fire hose under pressure, and the foam forming concentrate can be injected or sucked (e.g., by a venturi effect) into the water stream. Other techniques, such as a compressed gas foaming system, may also be employed as is well known to those skilled in the art. Applying the foam forming concentrate to the water of the device may be configured to dilute the foam forming concentrate to a desired amount (e.g., at least 0.1% w / w, at least 1% w / w, at least 2% w / w, at least 3% w / w, at least 4% w / w, at least 5% w / w, at least 6% w / w, or even more) to form the foam solution. The foam solution may have a viscosity of no greater than 100 centipoise, no greater than 55 centipoise, or even less. Further, a fire extinguisher tank may include the foam-forming concentrate or the foam-forming solution.

[0080] In another aspect of the present invention, the inventors contemplate that the foam comprises or is formed by the foam forming concentrate and water (e.g., fresh water, salt water, brackish water, etc.). As described above, the foam forming concentrate can be diluted with water (e.g., to a concentration of 0.1 wt % to 6 wt % or even more) to form the foam solution. The foam solution can be applied to a burning fuel (e.g., heptane) to form foam on the fuel to extinguish the fire. The foam can extend to the periphery above the fuel in a continuous layer. In various embodiments, an external force is applied to the continuous layer to form a rupture in the continuous layer. In these and other embodiments, a rod of approximately 1 inch in diameter can be introduced into the foam by continuous stirring to open the continuous layer of the foam and expose the fuel to form a rupture. The fuel is ignited behind the rod and burns as it is stirred. The foam is capable of "self-repairing" to extinguish a fire formed by igniting the exposed fuel. Self-repairing describes the ability of the foam to self-close and re-form foam on the exposed fuel to extinguish a fire. In certain embodiments, continuous stirring is performed in a "figure 8" pattern for a period of 10 to 30 seconds.

[0081] The foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate in an amount of 1 wt % based on the total weight of the foam solution can extinguish a fire fueled by heptane in a time period of less than 5 minutes when applied at a rate of 3 gallons per minute, as determined in accordance with UL 162 (Class B). Similarly, the foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate in an amount of 0.1 wt % based on the total weight of the foam solution can extinguish a fire fueled by a 3-A wood pile comprising 18 layers of 8 wood members, each of which has a size of 38 mm x 38 mm x 735 mm, and heptane in a time period of less than 1 minute when applied in an amount of 2.5 gallons, as determined in accordance with NFPA 18 (Class A). However, it should be understood that the foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate can be utilized to extinguish fires fueled by a variety of flammable liquids. It should also be understood that the foam solution can meet or exceed other extinguishment standards, such as applying the foam solution at a rate of 2 gallons per minute, wherein the extinguishment is in less than 3 minutes.

[0082] The foam-forming concentrate is employed to combat flammable liquid fires. The foam-forming concentrate is suitable for application as a foam solution to form a foam. As described above, the foam-forming concentrate is stored as an aqueous concentrate requiring only dilution, typically as 0.1%, 1%, 3%, 6%, or even more, to form the foam solution with fresh, salt or brackish water to form a "premix", which is then aerated to produce a foam that is applied to a burning substrate.

[0083] Example

[0084] The following examples are included to demonstrate the various embodiments contemplated herein. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the techniques disclosed in the following examples represent techniques found by the inventor to work well in the practice of the present invention, and therefore can be considered to constitute the desired practice mode of the present invention. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure that many changes can be made in the disclosed specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and still obtaining the same or similar results. Unless otherwise stated, all percentages are in % by weight and all measurements are performed at 23°C.

[0085] Exemplary and Prospective Formulations of Foam-Forming Concentrates

[0086] Exemplary formulations (Ex. I and Ex. II) of the foam-forming concentrates were formed and evaluated for fire extinguishing according to UL 162. Exemplary formulations were prepared using a batch process while maintaining the temperature of the formulation below 40° C. Prospective formulations (Pr. I, Pr. II, Pr. III, and Pr. IV) of the foam-forming concentrates are contemplated. Exemplary and prophetic formulations of the foam-forming concentrates are provided below.

[0087] Table 1: Formulation

[0088]

[0089] Anionic surfactant I is commercially available ammonium dodecyl sulfate.

[0090] Anionic surfactant II is commercially available sodium lauryl sulfate. Amphoteric surfactant I is commercially available cocamidopropyl betaine. Nonionic surfactant I is commercially available alkyl polyglucoside. Nonionic surfactant II is commercially available alkoxylated polyol. Polysaccharide I is commercially available polysaccharide.

[0091] Polysaccharide II is a commercially available modified starch.

[0092] The polar alkyl ether I is commercially available diethylene glycol monobutyl ether.

[0093] The polar alkyl ether II is commercially available ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether.

[0094] Alkylene glycol I is commercially available propylene glycol.

[0095] Filler I is commercially available urea.

[0096] Filler II was commercially available citric acid.

[0097] Filler III is commercially available 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol.

[0098] Evaluation of Exemplary Formulations (Category B)

[0099] The extinguishing performance of the formulations was then evaluated by preparing a 50 square foot basin including burning heptane. Each formulation was diluted to 3% (w / w) in water and applied directly to the burning heptane at a Type III direct application rate of 3 gallons per minute. The evaluation of exemplary formulations of foam-forming concentrates according to UL 162 (Class B) is provided below.

[0100] Table 2: Evaluation of formulations

[0101]

[0102] Predictive evaluation of predictive preparations (category B)

[0103] The extinguishing performance of the prospective formulations was evaluated prospectively by preparing a 50 square foot basin containing burning heptane. Each formulation was diluted to 3% (w / w) in water and applied directly to the burning heptane at a Type III direct application rate of 3 gallons per minute. The following provides a prospective evaluation of the prospective formulations of the foam-forming concentrate according to UL 162 (Class B).

[0104] Table III: Evaluation of formulations

[0105]

[0106]

[0107] In some embodiments, the numbers of the quantity, properties, such as concentration, reaction conditions, etc., of the representation components used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the present invention are understood to be modified by the term "about" in some cases. Therefore, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written specification and the appended claims are approximate values, which may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by a specific embodiment. The enumeration of the range of values ​​herein is intended only to be used as a shorthand method for individually referring to each independent value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually enumerated herein.

[0108] Unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradictory to the context, all methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "for example") provided herein with respect to a certain embodiment is intended only to better illustrate the present invention and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the present invention otherwise required. Any language in the specification should not be interpreted as indicating that any unrequired element is essential to the practice of the present invention.

[0109] As used in the description herein and in the claims that follow, the meanings of "a / an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "coupled to" as used herein is intended to include both direct coupling (where two elements coupled together are in contact with each other) and indirect coupling (where at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0110] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that, without departing from the inventive concept herein, in addition to those already described, many more modifications are possible. Therefore, except for the scope in the appended claims, the subject matter of the present invention is not limited. In addition, when interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprise" and "comprising" should be interpreted as indicating the mentioned elements (components), components (assemblies) or steps in a non-exclusive manner, which indicates that the mentioned elements, components or steps may exist or be utilized, or be combined with other elements, components or steps not explicitly mentioned. In the case where the specification or claims mention at least one of something selected from A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, rather than A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

1. A foam-forming concentrate comprising: a surfactant component comprising an anionic surfactant and an amphoteric surfactant, the surfactant component being present in an amount of at least 5 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate; a solvent component comprising a polar alkyl ether; and a gelling component selected from a carbohydrate, a synthetic hydrocolloid, or a combination thereof, the gelling component being present in an amount of at least 0.1 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, wherein the gelling component is substantially insoluble in the solvent component; wherein the foam-forming concentrate has a viscosity of no greater than 2,000 centipoise; and wherein the foam-forming concentrate at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) in water is capable of extinguishing a heptane fueled fire as determined in accordance with UL 162 in a period of less than 5 minutes at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute.

2. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the anionic surfactant is selected from the group consisting of ammonium alkyl sulfate, sodium alkyl sulfate, alkyl diphenyl oxide disulfonate, carboxylic acid surfactant, dioctyl sulfosuccinate, or combinations thereof.

3. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 2, wherein the anionic surfactant comprises ammonium alkyl sulfate and sodium alkyl sulfate.

4. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 3, wherein the ammonium alkyl sulfate comprises ammonium lauryl sulfate.

5. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 3, wherein the sodium alkyl sulfate comprises sodium lauryl sulfate.

6. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the amphoteric surfactant is selected from the group consisting of betaines, alkylhydroxysulfonates, alkylamine oxides, alkylaminopropionic acids, or combinations thereof.

7. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 6, wherein the betaine comprises an alkylamido betaine.

8. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 7, wherein the alkylamido betaine comprises cocamidopropyl betaine.

9. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the surfactant component further comprises a nonionic surfactant.

10. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 9, wherein the nonionic surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkyl polyglucosides, silicon-based surfactants, branched secondary alcohol ethoxylates, alkoxylated polyols, block copolymers of two or more of polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene and polyoxybutylene, or combinations thereof.

11. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 10, wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises an alkyl polyglucoside.

12. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the carbohydrate comprises a polysaccharide.

13. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 12, wherein the polysaccharide is selected from modified starch, agar, sodium alginate, carrageenan, guaiac gum, neem gum, pistacia gum, gati gum, karana resin, galactomannan, tragacanth gum, karaya gum, guar gum, welan gum, neutral gum, locust bean gum, beta-glucan, cellulose, methylcellulose, chicle gum, eucalyptus gum, dammar gum, gum arabic, glucomannan, gum matti, spruce gum, tara gum, psyllium seed husk, gellan gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, cassia gum, ditto gum, fenugreek gum, ghatti gum, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, karaya gum, konjac gum, pectin, propylene glycol alginate, or a combination thereof.

14. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the polar alkyl ether is selected from diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, triethylene glycol ethyl ether, triethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, propylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether, or a combination thereof.

15. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 14, wherein the polar alkyl ether comprises diethylene glycol monobutyl ether and ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether.

16. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the solvent component further comprises an alkylene glycol, water, or a combination thereof.

17. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 16, wherein the alkylene glycol comprises propylene glycol.

18. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein at least 3% (w / w) of the foam-forming concentrate at a concentration in water is capable of extinguishing a heptane-fueled fire in a period of less than 3 minutes as determined in accordance with UL 162.

19. The foam-forming concentrate of claim 1, wherein the water utilized to dilute the foam-forming concentrate is selected from fresh water, salt water, brackish water, or a combination thereof.

20. A foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate of claim 1 and water, wherein the foam solution forms a foam extending to the periphery in a continuous layer.

21. The foam solution of claim 20, wherein the foam is capable of reforming into a continuous layer after an external force is applied to the continuous layer to form breaks in the continuous layer.

22. The foam solution of claim 20, wherein the foam solution comprising the foam-forming concentrate in an amount of 3 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam is capable of extinguishing a heptane-fueled fire in a period of less than 3 minutes at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute as determined in accordance with UL 162.

23. The foam solution of claim 20, wherein the water is selected from fresh water, salt water, brackish water, or a combination thereof.

24. The foam solution of claim 20, wherein the foam solution has a viscosity of no greater than 200 centipoise.

25. The foam solution of claim 24, wherein the foam solution has a viscosity of no greater than 150 centipoise.

26. A foam-forming concentrate comprising: a surfactant component comprising an anionic surfactant and an amphoteric surfactant, the surfactant component being present in an amount of at least 5 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate; a solvent component comprising a polar alkyl ether; and a carbohydrate present in at least 0.1 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, wherein the carbohydrate is substantially insoluble in the solvent component; wherein the foam-forming composition has a viscosity of no greater than 2,000 centipoise; and wherein the foam-forming concentrate at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) in water is capable of extinguishing a heptane fueled fire as determined in accordance with UL 162 in a period of less than 5 minutes at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute.

27. A foam-forming concentrate comprising: a surfactant component comprising an anionic surfactant and an amphoteric surfactant, the surfactant component being present in an amount of at least 5 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate; a solvent component comprising a polar alkyl ether; and a synthetic hydrocolloid present in an amount of at least 0.1 weight percent based on the total weight of the foam-forming concentrate, wherein the synthetic hydrocolloid is substantially insoluble in the solvent component; wherein the foam-forming concentrate has a viscosity of no greater than 2,000 centipoise; and wherein the foam-forming concentrate at a concentration of at least 1% (w / w) in water is capable of extinguishing a heptane fueled fire as determined in accordance with UL 162 in a period of less than 5 minutes at a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute.

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