https://www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/el/fire_research/Williams-Suppression-Mechanisms-of-Alkali-Metal-Compounds.pdf
SUPPRESSION MECHANISMS OF ALKALI METAL COMPOUNDS
Bradley A. Williams and James W. Fleming
Chemistry Division, Code 61x5
US Naval Research Lnhoratory
Washington, DC 20375-5342, USA
INTRODUCTION
Alkali metal compounds, particularly those of sodium and potassium, are widely used as fire
suppressants. Of particular note is that small NuHCOi particles have been found to be 2-4 times
more effective by mass than Halon 1301 in extinguishing both eountertlow flames [ I ] and cup-
burner flames [?]. Furthermore, studies in our laboratory have found that potassium bicarbonate
is some 2.5 times more efficient by weight at suppression than sodium bicarhonatc. The primary
limitation associated with the use of alkali metal compounds is dispersal. since all known
compounds ...