Survitec, a global leader in Survival Technology, has successfully completed extensive performance testing of new alcohol-resistant fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrates
The results validate the compatibility of the new foam concentrates with marine foam mixing systems and demonstrate that a safe transition away from PFAS (Per- and PolyFluoroAlkyl Substances) based products is feasible, in advance of the IMO’s PFAS phase-out deadline in 2026.
Allcohol-resistant, fluorine-free foam concentrates rely on different active ingredients to maintain firefighting effectiveness without using fluorinated compounds. The result is a denser, more viscous fluid that poses new challenges for marine dosing systems originally designed for lower-viscosity foams.
“Standard proportioners are not typically designed to handle this kind of fluid, so it was essential that we rigorously test the system to ensure compatibility and dosing accuracy,” explained Maciej Niescioruk, product manager, Foam Systems, at Survitec.
“An incorrect dosing ratio can result in a foam that is ineffective in suppressing a fire. Foam proportioning systems must comply with a strict dosing accuracy range of -0% to +30% to ensure that underdosing does not occur - a critical requirement to avoid system failure.
“This is particularly important when using high-viscosity foam concentrates, which typically generate higher flow resistance. If a standard, unchanged, proportioner is used, the increased resistance can cause the actual mixing ratio to fall below the nominal value, violating regulatory requirements and compromising foam performance. By implementing our findings from these tests, we can ensure that our customers won’t face that risk.”
In addition to proportioner compatibility, appropriate pump selection is essential. A standard centrifugal pump designed for low-viscosity, Newtonian fluids will struggle to cope with the new, fluorine-free formulae.
From January 1, 2026, the IMO’s MSC.532(107) regulation will prohibit the use and storage of foams containing PerFluoroOctane Sulfonate (PFOS), part of the wider PFAS family now being phased out globally due to growing concerns over its impact on human health and the environment, requiring shipowners and operators to transition to fluorine-free alternatives.
“Fluorine-free, alcohol-resistant foams are particularly suited for chemical tankers, Norwegian double-ended ferries, and methanol-fuelled vessels, where environmental performance and fire safety are paramount. The successful completion of these performance tests allows Survitec to offer a tested and validated solution that mitigates technical risk and supports a smooth, compliant transition to fluorine-free technology. The findings are already being implemented in current projects, including a system commissioning in Turkey,” added Niescioruk.
“These are safety-critical systems,” he warns. “Any significant changes to these systems must be handled carefully, allowing time to assess the engineering requirements and obtain the proper approvals. Our message to the market is clear: plan now, test early, and work with an OEM partner who understands the technical and regulatory landscape.”
