Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new portable tool that may help firefighters battle blazes more efficiently and with less risk.
Traditional firefighting methods include chemical foams – which are toxic – and the use of hydrants, which can strain water resources. The recent fires in Southern California demonstrated the need for efficient fire suppression methods. The new device works to suppress flames using conductive aerosols, which are small particles that can direct electricity.
The device uses vortex rings – small donut-shaped bands of air – that transform the aerosol particles into short pulses of wind that convert nearby oxygen into ozone. This accelerated airflow generates rapid turbulence, which disrupts the natural combustion process and quickly extinguishes the target fire.
The device resembles a small bucket, attached to an arm brace. Firefighters would aim the bucket toward the fire, and it would use bursts of compressed air to deliver aerosols in an electric arc to fight the fire.
Testing identified a coarse copper solution for the vortex ring material and simulations showed that the device would succeed in suppressing fires. They then worked on optimizing the power and range of the device.
Depending on the size of the fire and number of firefighters, it is likely that several of the devices would be required in a real emergency. According to the developers, the design of the vortex launcher is actually very simple and is very scalable. The device is maneuverable in tight spaces and could be taken through doors and indoor environments. Vortex rings can carry chemical payloads over longer distances than other methods, making firefighters safe by staying further from flames.
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New device uses electrically assisted wind to fight fires
Photo, posted November 12, 2024, courtesy of the USDA Forest Service via Flickr.
Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio
