VIDEO/PHOTOS: A new eco-friendly firefighting foam is emerging from Ohio farm fields as a potential solution to the environmental and health hazards posed by traditional foams. Known as “SoyFoam,” derived from soybeans, this innovative product is being developed by Cross Plains Solutions.
“The product is soybean-based powder. We use the protein from the soy to create the foam. It’s 100% biodegradable. It’s non-toxic if it gets in the streams,” said Alan Snipes with Cross Plains Solutions. Traditional firefighting foams often contain PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” which pose risks to firefighters.
Snipes emphasized that their product contains none of these harmful chemicals. “It’s safe for the firefighters to use,” he said. A demonstration at the Harrison Township Fire Department in Pickaway County showcased SoyFoam’s effectiveness.
Captain Jordan Hempker from the department explained, “With the car fire, they made an initial approach, initial attack, and then they switched to the foam operation. That foam is creating a blanket, basically suds. It’s allowing water to penetrate, cool, and cover even deeper of fibers than of what might be burning.”
