TCFP Plans Examiner Practice Test

Which of the following is a synthetic based foam that creates a membrane rather than a film over polar solvent fuels?

1. AR-AFFF

2. Class B Foam

3. Protein Foam

4. Alcohol Resistant Foam

The correct answer is: AR-AFFF

The correct answer is AR-AFFF, which stands for Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film-Forming Foam. This type of foam is specifically designed to extinguish fires involving polar solvents, which are flammable liquids that can mix with water. Unlike traditional film-forming foams, AR-AFFF creates a protective membrane over the surface of the fuel, which helps prevent ignition and allows for effective suppression of the flames. AR-AFFF is engineered to provide a barrier that protects against the volatility of polar solvents. This is vital because these types of fuels can dissolve or disrupt other foam products that do not have alcohol-resistant properties. By forming a membrane rather than just a film, AR-AFFF enhances the extinguishing capabilities on these challenging liquid fires while minimizing the likelihood of re-ignition. Understanding the specific functionality of different types of foam is crucial for effective fire suppression strategies, particularly in environments where polar solvents are present, such as chemical plants, refineries, and laboratories.