Can Soy-Based Foam Change Firefighting?

Why Firefighting Foam Is Being Rethought

Conventional firefighting foams often rely on chemicals known as PFAS. These substances are resistant to breakdown and can accumulate in the environment. Concerns about their long-term effects on water, soil, and human health have led to growing demand for safer alternatives.

As regulations shift and awareness grows, fire departments and manufacturers are seeking foam products that do not contain these persistent compounds while still meeting fire suppression standards.

Composition and Practical Role

SoyFoam™ is made from soy flour, a byproduct of agricultural processing. The goal is to offer a fire suppressant with fewer long-term environmental impacts. Unlike traditional foams, it contains no added PFAS or long-lasting synthetic chemicals.

This formulation supports use in:

• Wildland fire control
• Rural fire departments
• Areas near water sources or farmland

Its plant-based content allows it to break down more naturally after deployment, reducing the risk of chemical residue.

In many cases, SoyFoam™ is used where environmental concerns outweigh the need for highly specialized foam types. While not designed for every fire scenario, it provides an option where minimizing environmental impact is a priority.

Environmental Considerations

One of the main goals of this innovation is to reduce chemical persistence after the foam is used. SoyFoam™ does not contain added PFAS and is formulated to break down more easily in the environment.

Being both biobased and biodegradable, it offers an environmental profile different from that of conventional foams, which can persist in ecosystems for years. This aligns with efforts to reduce pollution risks and support more sustainable fire safety tools.

Early Use and Testing

In some communities, especially those with volunteer or rural fire departments, SoyFoam™ has been tested during live fire responses. Feedback suggests it effectively blankets surfaces, supports water-based suppression, and is easy to apply with standard gear.

These field trials help evaluate performance in practical conditions and inform broader use as alternatives are considered more seriously by safety agencies.

Part of a Larger Transition

As state and national guidelines continue to move away from PFAS-based foams, innovations like SoyFoam™ are entering the market at a crucial time. Some regions have already restricted older formulations, while others are reviewing their safety policies.

Plant-based alternatives may also support broader agricultural use by creating demand for crops like soy in new industrial applications.