Flüssigbrände

Flüssigbrände, also known as liquid fires, refer to fires involving flammable liquids. These fires pose unique challenges due to the properties of the burning liquids. Common flammable liquids include gasoline, diesel fuel, oils, alcohols, and solvents. The flammability of a liquid is determined by its flash point, which is the lowest temperature at which it can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air.

The behavior of a liquid fire depends on whether the liquid is lighter or heavier than water. If the liquid is lighter than water, such as gasoline or oil, it will float on the surface of water. Attempting to extinguish such a fire with water can spread the burning liquid, making the fire worse. Water can be used to cool surrounding materials to prevent the fire from spreading, but it is generally not effective for extinguishing the liquid itself unless used as a fine mist to cool and smother the vapors.

If the liquid is heavier than water, like some industrial solvents, it will sink. This can make extinguishing the fire more difficult as the fuel source is submerged. Specialized extinguishing agents are crucial for liquid fires. Foam is highly effective as it creates a blanket over the burning liquid, separating it from oxygen and cooling the fuel. Dry chemical extinguishers, containing agents like sodium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate, can interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire. Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and cooling. Proper identification of the burning liquid is essential for selecting the appropriate extinguishing method.