Preparation and Physicochemical Properties of Inorganic Solidified Foam for Forest Fire

ABSTRACT To optimize the performance of inorganic solidified foam and apply it effectively in forest fire fighting, three different ionic surfactants were combined with four viscosity‐increasing foam stabilizers. Then, the ratio of inorganic solidified foam was changed to investigate the effects of four factors, namely, water–binder ratio, quick‐setting agent dosing, fly ash dosing, and foam dosing, on the foaming multiple and stability of the inorganic solidified foam. Finally, the fluidity and adhesion ability of the inorganic solidified foam were tested with different quick‐setting agent dosages and foam dosages, and the optimal working condition range of the inorganic solidified foam was determined based on the test results. The results showed that when SDS:APG = 7:1, the foaming multiples of the foam were higher and it could reach 52.5 times when the surfactant content in the solution was 1.2 wt%; among the four viscosity‐increasing stabilizers, the stabilizing effect of xanthan gum was the best. The inorganic solidified foam exhibits an extended foaming time when utilizing a water–binder ratio of 0.45 and a fly ash dosage of 0.5. To ensure optimal mobility and a specific adhesion thickness, it is recommended to maintain a foam dosage of 6 V or higher, with mobility falling within the 11–13 range. The preferred ratio for creating inorganic solidified foam involves a water–binder ratio of 0.45, a 0.6 wt% dosage of accelerating agent, a 0.5 fly ash content, and a foam mixing of 7 V.