Preliminary screening procedures and criteria for replacements for Halons 1211 and 1301

Halons 1301 and 1211 are being restricted by the Montreal Protocol of 1987. This project facilitates identification of alternative chemicals by developing quick, inexpensive screening procedures for nine critical properties: fire suppression efficiency, ozone depletion potential, global warming potential, residue level, toxicity, long-term storage stability, metals corrosion, electrical conductivity, and compatibility with plastics. The procedures are straight forward to conduct, require about 5 moles of chemical, and can be performed in about 8 days for less than $15k. Concurrent testing of many chemicals would cost less. Sample purity is critical. The test results are reported in classes that relate to the performance of Halons 1211 and 1301. Examples of testing sequences are provided. Interpretation of the results requires expert judgment since weak performance in a test may not be the basis for rejecting a chemical. These methods and performance classes have been developed for screening purposes only and should not be used for final selection procurement regulation without more extensive evaluation.