Which type of foam can be used on both hydrocarbon and water-soluble fuels?

The correct answer is AR-AFFF, which stands for Alcohol Resistant Aqueous Film Forming Foam. This type of foam is specifically designed to combat fires involving both hydrocarbon fuels, such as gasoline and oil, and water-soluble fuels, such as alcohols and other polar solvents. AR-AFFF contains special additives that allow it to spread and form a protective film over the surface of water-soluble fuels, which prevents them from igniting and helps to suppress flames effectively.

The versatility of AR-AFFF makes it an essential tool in firefighting scenarios where different types of fuels may be present. Its ability to work on both fuel categories is crucial for ensuring safety and effectiveness in fire suppression.

In comparison, AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) is primarily effective on hydrocarbon fuels and does not provide the same level of effectiveness against water-soluble fuels, which limits its application in certain fire situations. Foam-A and Beta Foam have specific applications and are not designed to handle both fuel types effectively, which is why they are not suitable for this particular need.