Preliminary Screening Procedures and Criteria for Replacements for Halons 1211 and 1301.
Preliminary Screening Procedures and Criteria for
Replacements for Halons 1211 and 1301.
(14103 K)
Gann, R. G.; Barnes, J. D.; Davis, S.; Harris, J. S.;
Harris, R. H., Jr.; Herron, J. T.; Levin, B. C.; Mopsik,
F. I.; Notarianni, K. A.; Nyden, M. R.; Paabo, M.;
Ricker, R. E.
NIST TN 1278; 311 p. August 1990.
Sponsor:
Air Force Engineering Lab., Tyndall AFB, FL
Available from:
National Technical Information Service
Order number: PB91-107110
Keywords:
halon 1211; halon 1301; electrical resistivity;
corrosion; residues; compatibility; plastics; fire
suppression; halons; ozone; storage stability; toxicity
Abstract:
The current halogenated fire suppressants, halons 1301
and 1211, are among the compounds whose production is
restricted by the Montreal Protocol of 1987. The
objective of this project is to facilitate
identification of alternative chemicals by developing
quick, inexpensive screening procedures for
characterizing nine critical properties: fire
suppression efficiency, ozone depletion potential,
global warming potential, residue level, toxicity,
long-term storage stability, metals corrosion,
electrical conductivity, and compatibility with
plastics. We have construced and exercised such a
series of tests that can be used to make decisions to
pursue particular chemicals further. The procedures are
straightforward to conduct, require about 5 moles of
chemical, and can be performed in about 8 days for less
than $15k. Lower costs would result for concurrent
testing of many chemicals. The results are reported in
classes that relate to the performance of halons 1211
and 1301. Examples of testing sequences are provided.
Interpretation of the results requires expert judgment
since weak performance in a test may not be the basis
for rejecting a chemical. These methods and performance
classes have been developed for screening purposes only
and should not be used for final selection, procurement
or regulation wihout more extensive evaluation.
