Jan 12, 2017

A new ASTM International standard helps ensure quality of a new fire-fighting agent known as 2-BTP, which could be used in fire extinguishers on airplanes and elsewhere. The new standard (D8060, Specification for 2-Bromo-3,3,3-Trifluoro-1-Propene (CF3CBr=CH2) was developed by ASTM’s committee on halogenated organic solvents and fire extinguishing agents (D26). 

The new specification provides the requirements for 2-BTP in regards to assay, acidity, water content, and more. According to ASTM member Bradford Colton, research engineer at American Pacific Corporation, the standard covers procedures for quality analysis to help with the purchase of new extinguishing agent or recycled agent. 

In addition, the standard meets U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and Underwriters Laboratories requirements for halon alternatives and clean fire extinguishing agents. Colton further notes that this new extinguishing agent, based on its performance advantages over other approved options, should be capable of replacing a larger share of the halon 1211 still used in handheld fire extinguishers in what is typically weight and volume sensitive areas onboard aircraft.  (Halon 1211 was phased out of production in developed countries in 1994 under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, an international treaty to heal the earth’s ozone layer.)  

As a companion to the D8060 specification, D8061 (Standard Practice for Handling, Transportation, and Storage of 2-Bromo-3,3,3-Trifluoro-1-Propene (CF3CBr=CH2)) has also been developed and provides additional guidance for handling bulk agent.

To purchase standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org). ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee D26 on Halogenated Organic Solvents and Fire Extinguishing Agents Next Meeting: June 14, 2017, June Committee Week, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Technical Contact: Bradford Colton, American Pacific Corp., Las Vegas, Nev., tel +1.435.865.5037  
ASTM Staff Contact: Kristy Straiton, tel +1.610.832.9640