Alumina Nanoparticles for Firefighting and Fire Prevention
Kseniia Mosina, Еlena А. Nazarova, A. Vinogradov, Vladimir V. Vinogradov, Elena F. Krivoshapkina, Pavel V. Krivoshapkin
Abstract
The progressive statistics of forest fires in the world makes them a global problem for humankind; therefore, the issue of controlling such natural disasters is extremely urgent. This paper describes the application of fine-dispersed alumina nanoparticles in firefighting. Nanocolloids based on aluminum hydroxide are proposed as the extinguishing compositions for two purpose: fire prevention and fire suppression with alumina barrier formation. Aluminum sulfate and various hydrolyzing agents (ammonia solution or sodium bicarbonate) are used to produce hydrosols. A ceramic coating based on the gamma phase of aluminum oxide with a specific surface area up to 150 m2/g is formed as a result of heat treatment during combustion. Creation of this barrier prevents oxygen access and removes heat excess simultaneously. The preparation of low-cost fine-dispersed nanoparticles of inorganic oxides is possible directly at the fire location by the firefighters themselves. In addition, obtained ceramic foam performs stable, environmentally friendly properties and prevents reignition.