Application of Nanotechnology in Extinguishing Agents

Extinguishing agents are a very important tool in the field of security, both in terms of private and social aspects. Depending on the type of burning substance and place of fire, appropriately prepared and developed solutions should be used. We can distinguish, among others, materials, powders or foaming agents. Modifications introduced into them, including ones based on the achievements in the field of nanotechnology, can improve their safety of use and extend their service life. Such amendments also reduce the costs of production and neutralization of the area after a fire, and increase the fire extinguishing effectiveness. The introduction of nanoparticles allows, e.g., shortening of the fire extinguishing time, reduction of the risk of smoke emission and the toxic substances contained in it, and an increase in the specific surface of particles and thus increasing the sorption of pollutants. The elaborations use metal nanoparticles, e.g., NP-Ag, metal oxides such as NP-SiO₂, as well as particles of substances already present in extinguishing agents but treated and reduced to nanosize. It should be noted, however, that all changes must lead to obtaining a tool that meets the relevant legal requirements and has appropriate approvals.