When applying AR-AFFF to a fire on a cargo tank containing a 10% ethanol blend, what is the expected outcome?

When applying AR-AFFF (Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) to a fire involving a cargo tank containing a 10% ethanol blend, the expected outcome is that it will likely be effective. AR-AFFF is specifically designed to combat fires involving polar solvents, such as alcohols, which include ethanol.

AR-AFFF works by creating a barrier that prevents the vapor from igniting and suppresses the flames, allowing it to effectively extinguish fires involving hydrocarbon and polar solvent fuels. Given that ethanol is a polar solvent, the formulation of AR-AFFF provides a critical advantage in controlling and extinguishing the fire, reducing the risk of flare-ups and allowing for safer fire suppression operations.

The efficiency of AR-AFFF in this scenario supports its selection as an appropriate fire suppression agent for situations involving ethanol blends, enhancing fire safety measures during hazardous material incidents.