FY 2023 STATEMENT OF NEED 

Weapons Systems and Platform (WP) Program Area 

The objective of this Statement of Need (SON) was to develop novel test methodologies for evaluating the effectiveness of firefighting formulations against realistic threats presented by Class B liquid pool fires. Specifically, the goal was to characterize current tests in MIL-PRF-24385 to determine minimum performance requirements that are needed to mitigate fires in operational environments thereby streamlining testing or develop new test methods and/or instrumentation. In addition, to develop new training techniques to reduce the environmental impact of live fire training with foam agents, while maintaining or improving firefighter readiness.

The projects listed below were selected to address the objectives of this SON. Additional information on individual projects can be found by clicking the project title.

• Quantifying Foam Suppression Performance Characteristics using Heat Release Rate Measured in a Cone Calorimeter
  • Lead Investigator: Brian Lattimer, Virginia Tech
• Augmented Reality for Firefighter Training of New Formulations and Delivery Mechanisms
  • Lead Investigator: Parren Burnette, Air Force Civil Engineering Center

Research should develop formulations that enable sustained manufacture and use of fire suppression technologies by meeting environmental requirements while maintaining equivalent performance to ensure safety of DoD personnel at airfields, onboard ships, and while deployed in extreme environments.