Next Generation Fire Suppression Technology Program

Next-generation Fire Suppression Technology Program (NGP)

The NGP, now in its second year, has as its goal the development of 2004 of alternative fire fighting technologies to halon 1301 that can be economically implemented in aircraft, ships, land combat vehciles and critical mission support facilities. This paper describes the first projects and their early results.

Iodotrifluoromethane

The U.S. military is considering using a compound called iodotrifluoromethane (CF3I) for fire suppression to replace previously-used compounds (halons) that are being phased out because they deplete the ozone layer. This report reviews available toxicological data on CF3I and evaluates the scientific basis of the U.S. Army's proposed exposure limit of 2,000 parts per million (ppm). The report recommends that CF3I be used for fire suppression in normally unoccupied spaces because of its potential to cause cardiac sensitization in test animals. The report also recommends that further genotoxicity testing be conducted (testing for changes in genetic material), and that CF3I be assessed for its potential to cause cancer. Should the Army decide to use CF3I, information should be collected and evaluated on how much of the chemical or any of its degradation products might be released and how often.

Advanced Technology for Fire Suppression in Aircraft