Methodological studies for measuring foam effectiveness: suppression capability with the test of weight rate remained on the crown surface

Abstract

Introduction: The effectiveness of the foams used in fighting against forest fire depends on common effect of some coefficients. Cooling and isolation effects as main extinguishing effects as well as side extinguishing effects, like evaporation, blanket and separation effects are also included. The more extinguisher remains on the surface, the more extinguishing effect it has. Methods: A product for the test was randomly chosen out of the ones on the market. Spruce was chosen for the test due to its high flammability. The goal was to determine the amount of extinguisher at the end of the branches in the foliage. Groups of the same size were created in the selected foliage. To start with, the weight of the untreated foliage was measured, followed by the groups of foliage dipped in water and foaming agents. Results and discussion: According to the findings of research, the amount of foam remaining on the foliage is remarkably higher than that of water. Its rate is 3.36-3.76 compared to water. The research also revealed that this rate does not significantly depend on expansion rate.