What type of foam is best for ethanol or alcohol based liquids?

• A. AFFF foam
• B. Fluoroprotein foam
• C. Protein foam
• D. Alcohol resistant (AR) foam

Answer: (D)

When dealing with ethanol- or alcohol-based liquids, you need a foam that can stand up to the solvent action of alcohols. Ordinary foams, like protein, fluoroprotein, or AFFF, tend to break down in the presence of alcohol, causing the foam blanket to collapse and the fire to risk reflash. Alcohol Resistant foam is formulated with additives that resist alcohol attack, so the foam blanket remains intact longer, evenly seals the surface, and maintains cooling as the alcohol-based liquid is contained. This makes it the best choice for fuels or liquids containing ethanol or other alcohols. The other foams aren’t designed to withstand alcohol exposure, so they don’t provide reliable protection in these situations.