Abstract
<jats:p>The paper proposes a comprehensive method for modifying the dispersed medium of air-mechanical foam, combining reagent-free (electrophysical water treatment) and reagent (mineralization with hydrophilic marshalite SiO ₂) approaches, as well as replacing air with carbon dioxide during generation. The purpose of the study is to increase the fire extinguishing ability and stability of foam in extreme conditions characteristic of the Arctic climate, extinguishing live electrical installations and fires of lithium-ion batteries. It was experimentally found that electrophysical treatment (at 18 kV) reduces the surface tension of water from 72.8 to 65.0 mN/m and reduces the wetting angle on glass from 44° to 22°, which improves penetration. The addition of 0.5% by weight marshalite increases the foam half-life from 8 to 14 minutes, increases adhesion and heat resistance. Replacing air with CO ₂ reduces electrical conductivity, eliminates the supply of oxygen to the combustion zone and provides an additional phlegmatizing effect. The obtained mineralized compression foam demonstrates an extended temperature range of application, increased resistance to drainage and coalescence, as well as effectiveness in extinguishing in difficult conditions. The results offer prospects for developing regulatory requirements for a new generation of fire-extinguishing foams.</jats:p>