Frequently asked questions
Do you have something you are wondering about? Here are some common questions we usually get. See if you can find the answer you are looking for.
AFFF contains surfactants, boosters and PFAS compounds, which are responsible for its effective fire suppression properties but the PFAS content also raise environmental concerns. At Fomtec, we offer advanced fluorine free foams that eliminate PFAS while delivering top-tier performance for Class B fire hazards.
At Fomtec, our fluorine free foams are the ideal replacement for AFFF. These next-generation Class B firefighting foams are specifically developed to provide effective suppression of both hydrocarbon and polar solvent fires—without containing PFAS. Our portfolio includes high-performance fluorine free options such as our Enviro line, suitable for applications across Aviation & Industry, Oil & Gas, Marine & Navy, Airports / ARFF, Fire Brigades, and Military. These foams are non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for both firefighters and the environment. We also provide technical support, mimic testing, and training to ensure a smooth and effective transition away from AFFF.
Yes, AFFF is still in use in certain sectors such as airports, military installations, and some industrial sites where regulations continue to permit or require its use. However, due to increasing restrictions and the environmental concerns associated with PFAS, many organizations are actively transitioning away from AFFF.
At Fomtec, we support both current users of fluorinated foams – including modernized C6 formulations – and those seeking safer, fluorine free alternatives. Our fluorine free foam solutions are engineered for high performance across a wide range of Class B fire risks, including hydrocarbon and polar solvent fires. These foams meet rigorous international standards and are suitable for critical applications in Oil & Gas, Marine, Aviation, Fire Brigades, and more. We also offer technical consulting, mimic testing, and training services to help our customers implement sustainable and compliant foam systems.
Yes, traditional AFFF and AR-AFFF foams still contain PFAS, a group of chemicals increasingly regulated due to their environmental persistence and potential health risks. These fluorinated foams have been widely used in Class B fire protection, especially in sectors like Oil & Gas, Aviation, and Military.
The most effective replacement for AFFF is fluorine free foam (SFFF), which delivers strong firefighting performance without the environmental hazards of PFAS. Fomtec’s fluorine free solutions are used globally in Aviation, Oil & Gas, Marine, Military, and Fire Brigades. Our products offer proven effectiveness on both hydrocarbon and polar solvent fires.
The transition away from PFOS-based AFFF began in the early 2000s. However, newer AFFF formulations with short-chain PFAS (like C6) have continued in use. Today, the shift toward fluorine free foams is accelerating. At Fomtec, we actively support this move with a full range of certified, PFAS-free foam solutions and transition services.
AFFF is not considered environmentally friendly due to its PFAS content. These substances persist in the environment and have been linked to water contamination. Fomtec offers environmentally responsible alternatives, including fluorine free foam concentrates that are biodegradable and designed to meet high performance standards without lasting environmental impact.
Disposal of AFFF should be handled by licensed professionals using approved methods such as high-temperature incineration. At Fomtec, we can help guide customers through the safe disposal of legacy AFFF stocks and offer replacement solutions, including technical support for system retrofitting and transition planning.
AFFF concentrates typically have a shelf life of a minimum 10 years 20-25 years if stored correctly. However, age, storage conditions, and formulation can affect performance. Fomtec offers both testing services for foam stocks and guidance on upgrading to fluorine free alternatives, helping ensure ongoing reliability and compliance.
While legislation around the world is increasingly restricting the use of AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) due to its content of PFAS, it is not universally banned. Regulations vary by country and region, with many governments phasing out AFFF for most applications, especially in training and testing scenarios. At Fomtec, we offer a wide range of fluorine free foams for fighting fires, which are designed to meet performance standards while eliminating the environmental and health concerns associated with PFAS. These include Class A / Plastic, Class F, and solutions for both hydrocarbon and polar solvent fires. For customers still required to use AFFF due to specific regulatory exemptions, we continue to provide technical support, while helping transition to more sustainable alternatives. Please contact us for tailored guidance.