Which type of foam is particularly well suited for gasoline spills?

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is particularly effective for gasoline spills due to its unique composition and behavior when applied to flammable liquid fires. AFFF contains surfactants that create a thin film on the surface of the burning liquid, which serves several functions.

The film acts as a barrier, preventing the release of flammable vapors into the atmosphere, thereby reducing the risk of ignition and explosion. This film also helps to suppress fire by cooling the area and smothering the flames. AFFF is specifically formulated to be effective against hydrocarbon fuels like gasoline and is designed to rapidly spread over the surface of the liquid, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

While other types of foam may have their own applications, AFFF's ability to form a stable film on fuels like gasoline makes it the preferred choice for this type of incident. Its efficiency in creating a barrier and extinguishing the fire swiftly enhances safety and controls the situation effectively.