C02/Water Microemulsion Fire Suppression in Dry Bays

Fires in dry bays of military aircraft present a significant hazard that must be addressed with advanced fire suppression systems. The USAF is interested in concepts that do not require power or active sensing of fire for proper operation. ADA Technologies, Inc. has been developing fine water mist fire suppression technology for the past 10 years, and proposes a solution for this problem that incorporates the required features noted above. We will prepare and evaluate at least two proof-of-concept designs for a dry bay fire suppression system that uses a microemulsion of CO2 and water as the working fire suppression agent. Water has a very high heat capacity and when dispersed as a fine water mist of droplet size less than 30 microns, exhibits very high heat transfer rates. CO2 is also a fire suppression agent, can be stored as a liquid at pressure and flashes to a gas upon release of storage pressure. As an emulsion, these fluids are easily dispersed throughout a protected space. We will run fire tests of the system in a simulated dry bay with partner Applied Research Associates. In Phase II we will advance the design to a prototype for use in combat aircraft. BENEFITS: A CO2 /water emulsion fire suppression system would have wide applicability in the aerospace field for the protection of military aircraft. Applications would also include potential service in commercial aircraft as a fire protection system in engine nacelles as well as cargo compartments. A commercial variant would find applications for the protection of flammable liquid storage spaces, and as fire suppression systems in computer and electronic equipment facilities. ADA will partner with a commercial supplier of fire suppression equipment to take this technology to market as development advances through Phases I and II of the SBIR process.