Wildland Fire Chemicals

Evaluation of Wildland Fire Chemicals
Standard Test Procedures (revised 5/4/06)

STP 8.1—Surface Tension

Summary:

The surface tension of a test solution is one indicator of the ability of the solution to penetrate wildland fuels, such as charred wood and scorched duff, as well as weathered building materials.

A sample of the product that was submitted to the Forest Service for qualification testing is sent to an approved testing lab. Results are sent back to the Forest Service.

The Project Leader for Fire Chemicals reviews the results and prepares a letter to the supplier showing the performance of the submitted product.

Method:

All testing shall be performed in accordance with American Society of Testing and Materials Standard Test Method for Surface and Interfacial Tension of Solutions of Surface-Active Agents.

Equipment:

• Electronic density meter
• 5-mL syringe
• Calibration standard (usually room temperature distilled water)

References:

American Society for Testing and Materials. Standard Test Method for Surface and Interfacial Tension of Solutions of Surface-Active Agents; D1331-89(2001).

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