The hunt is on for a safe alternative to PFAS-containing firefighting foam, which has been used so extensively that traces of it can be found in the water supplies and bodies of many Americans.
Also known as “forever chemicals,” per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used for decades in a range of products, including nonstick pans, stain-resistant fabrics, and food packaging. They’re favored for their durability and “slick” resistance to surface tension — but they’re also deadly.
At high enough levels, these chemicals can cause thyroid disorders, multiple types of cancer, and more. One of the most common uses of PFAS is in firefighting foams or AFFF, particularly in airports and military facilities throughout the country.
As a result, there's been a push for PFAS-free AFFF alternatives. Safespill flooring systems, water mist, and soybean foam are just a few alternatives to AFFF that don’t pose a risk to human health.
However, those already exposed to AFFF may still be in danger of getting sick.
At Sokolove Law, we may be able to help you or a loved one pursue compensation from AFFF lawsuits after a PFAS-related cancer diagnosis.
Is AFFF Toxic?
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), also known as firefighting foam, contains toxic chemicals called PFAS. These “forever chemicals” can lead to serious health issues like cancer, which is why alternatives are now being considered.
Firefighting foam cancers and illnesses include:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Leukemia
- Liver cancer
- Lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Renal or kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer and disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Uterine or endometrial cancer
Sadly, PFAS water contamination is also a major concern since firefighting foam can get into wells and other key water sources.
If you or someone you love was diagnosed with one of these illnesses after AFFF exposure, a firefighting foam lawyer may be able to help you pursue justice and compensation.
Are There Safe PFAS-Free Firefighting Foam Alternatives?
The U.S. military, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and other agencies commonly use AFFF to control fuel fires. However, because PFAS may cause health risks, these agencies have been investigating safe alternatives for firefighting foam.
The GreenScreen Certified Standard for Firefighting Foams aims to ensure AFFF alternatives are nontoxic. Since launching, dozens of companies have joined to promote over 100 different PFAS-free foams.
PFAS-free foam alternatives include:
- Fluorine-free firefighting foam (F3)
- Safespill floors
- Soybean foam
- Trench nozzles
- Water mist systems
However, when it comes to private industry, there’s little guarantee that a product is safe or environmentally friendly just because a company says it is.
DuPont and 3M, for example, knew about the dangers of PFAS chemicals as early as the 1950s but continued to promote them as safe well into the 2000s.
PFAS-free firefighting foam alternatives can help to extinguish fires without putting anyone’s health in jeopardy. Learn more about each below.
1. Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam (F3)
Fluorine-free firefighting foam (F3) was developed by the FAA and the Naval Sea Systems Command to replace AFFF while still meeting military specifications.
F3 doesn’t create a film to smother fires like AFFF does. Instead, F3 foam does the heavy lifting to suppress the flames. Even without the film-forming properties, F3 can effectively control fuel fires — a major issue facing military bases and airports.
F3 was approved for use by the U.S. Navy and in major airports under FAA jurisdiction in September 2023.
2. Safespill Floors
The company Safespill has designed a flooring system to help drain jet fuel spills in airport hangars, which pose a high risk of fires.
Also known as an ignitable liquid drainage floor assembly, the system consists of vented flooring that catches fuel in below-ground trenches. Sensors flush water into the trenches, draining the fuel into a contamination tank for removal.
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has stated that Safespill flooring is a safe, PFAS-free firefighting foam alternative. However, the department cited the cost of retrofitting airport hangars as a concern.
3. Soybean Foam
Soybean foam, also known as SoyFoam, creates suds using a protein from soy. It’s currently the only biodegradable AFFF alternative available.
Soybean foam smothers flames and helps to reach deeper into areas that aren’t yet burning while using less water. It’s been tested on fires involving diesel fuel and has proven to be very effective.
AFFF foam alternatives can protect firefighters and communities moving forward — but it doesn't help those who have already gotten sick. Find out if you may qualify for compensation from an AFFF lawsuit.
4. Trench Nozzle System
This fire control system uses a grid of trenches combined with nozzles that spray water and PFAS-free firefighting foam. It’s similar to the Safespill system but doesn’t use sensors or a tank to pump fuel away.
Trench nozzles can control fuel fires and have already seen some application by the U.S. Navy, according to the DOD. However, the steep cost of retrofitting hangars to use trench nozzles poses a major challenge.
5. Water Mist
Using water mist can also help control fires. Rather than spraying water itself, this type of system creates droplets to put out blazes. Mist systems use less water than standard sprinklers and improve the cooling properties.
A crucial drawback is that the systems can only contain fuel fires, not extinguish them. As a result, the DOD has noted they aren’t up to fire codes for airplane hangars.
Call (800) 995-1212 now. We can determine if you may be able to file a firefighting foam lawsuit.
Is AFFF Foam Banned?
While 23 states have banned or restricted AFFF, as of 2024, firefighting foam is still being used in many places. Researchers and agencies continue to study which alternatives to PFAS in firefighting foam will work best.
Most uses of AFFF were supposed to have been phased out by October 1, 2024, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). However, delays in finding the best replacement have meant that military AFFF use may continue through 2026.
Why Is PFAS Used in Firefighting Foam?
PFAS-containing firefighting foams are still in use despite the health risks since they are seen as the most effective way to put out fuel-based fires. AFFF’s film-forming abilities mean it can smother fires more efficiently than F3, a key alternative.
“PFAS-free foams don’t work as well as traditional AFFF,” said Brian Lattimer, a mechanical engineering professor at Virginia Tech. “That means firefighters may need more foam to put out the same fire."
Sadly, the time and cost of substitutes pose a major concern for companies and institutions looking to make the switch — but you can't put a price tag on the health and safety of veterans and first responders.
However, as more PFAS lawsuits are filed and the health risks linked to this substance become clearer, the pressure to ban AFFF once and for all continues to grow.
Get Help for Firefighting Foam Cancers
Finding safe AFFF alternatives is key to limiting PFAS exposure and reducing the risks of long-term health issues. If you or a loved one has a PFAS-related illness, we may be able to help you seek AFFF compensation for medical expenses.
At Sokolove Law, our team has recovered over $9.8 Billion total for clients across the country.
“I reached out to Sokolove Law after a friend told me about a lawsuit against chemical foam manufacturers. They found I may be eligible for a lawsuit and compensation for cancer. The process was easy and professional.”
– Joe M., Firm AFFF Client
Get a free case review now to find out if you may be eligible for an AFFF lawsuit and take the first steps to getting justice.
