Fire Protection Research Foundation report: "Antifreeze Solutions in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems - Literature Review and Research Plan"
Author: Code Consultants, Inc.
Date of issue: June 2010
Foreword
Automatic sprinkler systems significantly limit the potential for loss of life and property in residential occupancies. When portions of automatic sprinkler systems must be located in spaces subject to freezing and temperatures cannot reliably be maintained at or above 40°F, NFPA 13 requires the use of dry pipe, preaction, or antifreeze sprinkler systems, or other systems specifically listed to protect against freezing. Recent fire incidents have raised questions regarding the effectiveness of sprinkler systems with certain antifreeze solutions in controlling residential fire conditions.
This report describes the results of a literature search on the impact of antifreeze solutions on the effectiveness of home fire sprinkler systems. Suggestions for further research are provided to provide a more complete analysis of currently permitted antifreeze solutions as well as to investigate other antifreeze solutions that could be used in sprinkler systems.