What does AFFF stand for?

AFFF stands for Aqueous Film-Forming Foam, which is specifically designed for suppressing flammable liquid fires. This foam operates by forming a thin film on the surface of the burning liquid, which helps to prevent the release of flammable vapors and inhibits the fire's re-ignition. The formulation of AFFF includes water and a variety of surfactants that enable it to spread quickly and form an effective barrier against the flames. Understanding the components and the function of AFFF is crucial for effective fire-fighting strategies, especially in environments where hydrocarbon or polar solvent fires may occur.

In contrast, the other options either mischaracterize the nature of the foam or provide inaccurate descriptions that do not align with the established terminology within fire safety and emergency response protocols.