阅读说明：本技术 用于防止野火的方法和水性组合物 (Method and aqueous composition for preventing wildfires ) 是由 K·萨利 于 2019-11-15 设计创作，主要内容包括：本申请提供了用于防止目标中的野火的方法,所述方法包括提供包含阻燃剂和纤维状纤维素的水性组合物,并将所述水性组合物施加至所述目标。本申请还提供了包含阻燃剂和纤维状纤维素的水性组合物,以及包含所述水性组合物的容器。本申请还提供了所述水性组合物用于防止野火的用途。(A method for preventing wildfires in a target is provided, the method comprising providing an aqueous composition comprising a flame retardant and fibrous cellulose, and applying the aqueous composition to the target. Also provided are aqueous compositions comprising a flame retardant and fibrous cellulose, and containers comprising the aqueous compositions. The present application also provides the use of the aqueous composition for preventing wildfires.)

1. A method for preventing wildfires at a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition comprising a flame retardant and fibrous cellulose, and

-applying the aqueous composition to the target.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fibrous cellulose comprises microfibrous cellulose.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the fibrous cellulose comprises microfibrous parenchymal cellulose.

4. The process of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the brookfield viscosity of the fibrillar cellulose is at least 10 mPa-s, preferably at least 100 mPa-s, e.g. in the range of 10-800 mPa-s, 10-500 mPa-s or 10-200 mPa-s, measured at a shear rate of 1.05 (w/w) at 100 rpm at 20 ℃ ± 1 ℃.

5. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aqueous composition comprises fibrous cellulose in the range of 0.1-2% (w/w), such as in the range of 0.1-1% (w/w), or in the range of 0.1-0.5% (w/w).

6. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the flame retardant comprises ammonium phosphate, such as diammonium hydrogen phosphate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, or a combination thereof, such as 5-55% (w/w) ammonium phosphate, such as 10-50% (w/w), such as 20-50% (w/w).

7. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the flame retardant comprises a magnesium compound, such as magnesium sulfate, for example in an amount in the range of 15-50% (w/w), such as 15-40% (w/w) or 15-30% (w/w).

8. The method of any one of the preceding claims, comprising applying the aqueous composition to the target by spraying.

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the target is selected from an external and/or natural area, such as a rural or rural area, such as an area of terrain, ground, turf, peat, forest, bushes, shrubs, desert, grass, mountain, vegetation and grassland.

10. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wildfire is selected from the group consisting of ground fire, turf fire, peat fire, crawling or surfacing fire, ladder fire (ladder fire) and tree crown fire, forest crown fire and aerial fire.

11. An aqueous composition for preventing wildfires at a target comprising a flame retardant and a fibrous cellulose.

12. The aqueous composition of claim 11, wherein the fibrous cellulose comprises microfibrous cellulose.

13. The aqueous composition of claim 11 or 12, wherein the fibrous cellulose comprises microfibrous parenchymal cellulose.

14. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 11-13, wherein the brookfield viscosity of the fibrillar cellulose is at least 10 mPa-s, preferably at least 100 mPa-s, e.g. in the range of 10-800 mPa-s, 10-500 mPa-s or 10-200 mPa-s, measured at a shear rate of 100 rpm at 20 ℃ ± 1 ℃ at a concentration of 1.05 (w/w).

15. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 11-14, wherein the aqueous composition comprises fibrous cellulose in the range of 0.1-2% (w/w), such as in the range of 0.1-1% (w/w), or in the range of 0.1-0.5% (w/w).

16. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 11-15, wherein the flame retardant comprises ammonium phosphate, comprising diammonium phosphate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, or a combination thereof, such as 5-55% (w/w) ammonium phosphate, such as 10-50% (w/w), such as 20-50% (w/w).

17. The aqueous composition of any of claims 11-16, wherein the flame retardant comprises a magnesium compound, such as magnesium sulfate, for example in an amount in the range of 15-50% (w/w), such as 15-40% (w/w) or 15-30% (w/w).

18. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 11 to 17 in a container, such as a portable container or a container in a vehicle tyre or wheel, preferably comprising instructions or other indications for using the aqueous composition for preventing wildfires.

19. Use of an aqueous composition according to any one of claims 11 to 18 for preventing wildfires.

20. Vehicle tyre or wheel comprising an inner container, preferably an elastic inner container, such as a bag or inner tube, arranged to receive an aqueous fire retardant or fire extinguishing composition, such as an aqueous composition according to any one of claims 11-18, connected to a valve for releasing the aqueous composition.

21. The vehicle tire or wheel of claim 20, wherein the valve is a valve separate from the air input valve of the tire or wheel, preferably wherein the valve is mounted or arranged to be mounted to a wheel rim.

22. An inner container in the form of a continuous annular elastic tube arranged to be mounted in a tyre or wheel and/or rim, the inner container being arranged to receive an aqueous flame retardant or fire extinguishing composition, such as an aqueous composition according to any of claims 11-17, and being connected to a valve for releasing the aqueous composition.

23. The inner container of claim 22, wherein the valve is a valve separate from an air input valve of a tire or wheel, preferably wherein the valve is arranged to be mounted to a wheel rim.

24. A vehicle, such as an all terrain vehicle or a tractor, such as a forest tractor, comprising a tire or wheel according to claim 20 or 21, or an inner container according to claim 22 or 23.

Technical Field

The present application relates to a method for preventing wildfires, an aqueous composition useful in said method and the use of said aqueous composition.

Background

Wildfire or wildland fire is a fire in a region of combustible vegetation that typically occurs in rural or rural areas. Wildfires may also be more particularly classified as dwarf, shrub, desert, forest, grass, mountain, peat, vegetation and grassy fires, depending on the type of vegetation that is occurring. There may be several natural causes of wildfire fires, such as dry weather, lightning and volcanic eruptions. In addition, there are also human causes such as, for example, a pilot fire, discarded cigarettes, power cord arcing, and sparks from equipment.

Wildfires are prone to spread, and the spread may vary based on the presence of flammable materials, their vertical arrangement and moisture content, and weather conditions. Fire types may be characterized by their fuel, such as ground, crawling or surface, ladder and tree-crown, forest-crown or air fire. Some fire types are particularly challenging, such as ground, turf or peat fires, where the fire may smolder deep underground, even at several meters and tens of square meters of area underground. Currently, it may be necessary to excavate the ground using machinery to expose such concealed fires so that they can be extinguished. In forest fires, there are also other challenging fire targets, such as ant piles, dark brown stumps, etc., which can also carry afterflames and may need to be treated mechanically, especially when located on rocky terrain. This is very slow and expensive, as the fire area may be far from the nearest road.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to prevent the spread of such wildfires. However, stopping or preventing the spread of fire in nature is challenging and requires an environmental, effective and versatile solution for controlling wildfires.

Disclosure of Invention

The aqueous compositions disclosed herein have been found to be very effective in preventing, suppressing and/or extinguishing fires, particularly wildfires and the like. The aqueous composition acts as a flame retardant and it may be used to slow or stop the spread of a fire or reduce its strength. Afterflame can also be prevented. Different kinds of targets can be treated with the aqueous composition, thus making the target less prone to ignition and burning. Such targets include external and/or natural areas, such as rural or rural areas, such as areas of terrain, ground, turf, peat, forest, bushes, shrubs, desert, grass, mountains, vegetation, grasslands, and the like.

The present application provides a method for preventing wildfires at a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition comprising a flame retardant and fibrous cellulose, and

-applying the aqueous composition to the target.

The present application also provides a method for preventing wildfires at a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition comprising ammonium phosphate, and

-applying the aqueous composition to the target.

The present application also provides a method for preventing wildfires at a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition comprising a magnesium compound, and

-applying the aqueous composition to the target.

The present application also provides an aqueous composition comprising a flame retardant and fibrous cellulose. The present application also provides an aqueous composition comprising ammonium phosphate and fibrous cellulose. The present application also provides an aqueous composition comprising a magnesium compound and fibrous cellulose.

The present application also provides the use of the aqueous composition for preventing wildfires.

The present application also provides a container or vehicle tire containing the aqueous composition.

The main embodiment is characterized by the independent claims. Various embodiments are disclosed in the dependent claims. The embodiments and examples recited in the dependent claims and the description may be freely combined with each other, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

As discussed herein, fire protection includes all actions aimed at or resulting in the prevention, suppression, or extinguishing of a fire or the spread of a fire or fire. For example, a protected area, such as a protected area, may be created for the ground or other area, or particularly for high risk areas, and at least partially surround an existing fire, for example by creating a protected area around the fire to prevent the fire from spreading. In particular, the compositions disclosed herein may be used to treat an area or target in a prophylactic manner, which may be classified as passive fire suppression. Active fire suppression refers to the act of fighting an existing fire. The composition may also be applied directly to an existing fire as a fire extinguishing agent, which is particularly useful in emergency situations. The composition can be used to effectively extinguish and/or insulate fires, particularly in the case of smoldering underground, such as turf or peat fires. This is not necessarily achieved by using water, as water cannot always properly penetrate the dried land or peat.

The methods disclosed herein are effective for preventing different types of wildfires, such as ground fires, turf fires, peat fires, crawling or surface fires, ladder and tree crown fires, forest crown fires or aerial fires. The target (e.g., the ground and/or surface) may be treated with the aqueous composition to an extent that fire and/or spread of fire can be prevented or inhibited. For example in surface fires, where the fire is supplied by underground roots, half-rot layers and other burning organic matter, and where the fire can burn slowly for days to months by smoldering, it is important to properly and deeply impregnate the surface with the protective composition. It was found that the aqueous composition of the present invention is capable of penetrating very deeply into the ground. Furthermore, especially when fibrous cellulose is included, the composition also stays at the desired target, e.g. on vegetation and/or at a certain level of the ground, turf, peat, etc., and does not simply flow through it. However, the composition does not block vegetation or land and loose plant material does not clump, so the treatment does not interfere with living plants.

In creeping or surface fires that are fueled by low-lying vegetation on woodland (e.g., leaves and wood waste, debris, grass, and low-lying shrubs), and that often burn at relatively low temperatures and spread at low rates, vegetation can be effectively treated with an aqueous composition. Unlike water, the aqueous composition effectively penetrates the ground and vegetation, even dry ground, turf or peat, and in combination with the treated material, so that the protective properties remain in the target and protect it from wildfires. The composition is stable and retains its properties over a long period of time.

The composition forms a protective coating on the treated material that is effective in preventing fire. The composition may also release crystal water by heat, which cools the fire and helps prevent the spread of the fire.

The aqueous composition used in the process is inexpensive, which is important because of the very large amount of composition required to treat large exterior areas. The ammonium phosphate or magnesium compound used as the basis for the composition was found to be an effective but very inexpensive material that is well suited for the uses discussed herein. The composition is also non-toxic and environmentally safe, and it is free of, for example, boron, which is undesirable in compositions for treating ground or vegetation, and/or silicates. No protection equipment is required in the process. Since the composition is completely aqueous, the device is easy to clean after use. Even if frozen, the composition does not lose its properties, which facilitates storage and transport of the composition. By using the aqueous composition, an excessive release of unwanted gases, such as carbon dioxide or toxic gases, is also avoided. Furthermore, the composition comprising ammonium phosphate is used as a fertilizer in the ground.

Even if a safe and non-toxic composition stays in the target for an extended period of time, it will eventually be washed away by rain and will not accumulate on the plants and/or in the ground where it can interfere with living plants. Therefore, the chemical substances contained in the composition do not bind to the plants for a long time. This can also be facilitated by the use of water-soluble compounds.

Drawings

FIG. 1 shows a test fire at a terrain

Figure 2 shows the terrain after

FIG. 3 shows the topography after treatment of an area with an aqueous composition

FIG. 4 shows the arrangement of test blocks prior to a fire

FIG. 5 shows the arrangement of test blocks prior to a fire

FIG. 6 shows a test fire in a block

FIG. 7 shows the test block after the fire test

FIG. 8 shows crushed turf after fire testing

Figure 9 shows a turf bale after fire testing

Figure 10 shows a turf bale after fire testing

FIG. 11 shows a table showing the results of the ignition test

Fig. 12 shows a graph representing the measured heat release rate.

Detailed Description

In this specification, percentage values are based on weight (w/w) unless explicitly indicated otherwise. If any numerical range is provided, that range also includes upper and lower values. Unless otherwise indicated, concentrations are expressed on a dry weight basis. The percentages of the ingredients in the final product total 100%. The final product may contain minor amounts of additives conventional in the art, for example less than 5% (w/w), less than 3% (w/w), less than 2% (w/w) or less than 1% (w/w).

In the methods for preventing and/or suppressing fires (especially wildfires) disclosed herein, specific aqueous compositions are used to treat targets to be protected from a fire. The composition is water-based and contains no or only minimal amounts of undesirable hazardous materials in the environment or equipment. The composition preferably has a substantially neutral pH.

The present disclosure provides a method for preventing wildfires at a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition comprising a flame retardant, and

-applying the aqueous composition to the target. The present disclosure also provides methods of treating an object (particularly for preventing wildfires) with one or more of the aqueous compositions disclosed herein. The target may comprise any target or material disclosed herein. Accordingly, the present disclosure also provides methods of treating one or more materials with one or more of the aqueous compositions disclosed herein.

The aqueous composition may be an aqueous composition as disclosed herein. The composition is a water-based composition comprising at least a flame retardant, such as one or more ammonium phosphates, one or more magnesium compounds, and/or one or more other flame retardants disclosed herein. The aqueous composition may further comprise fibrous cellulose, one or more surfactants, and/or one or more other agents disclosed herein. The aqueous composition may consist of or consist essentially of the ingredients mentioned herein. The composition may be obtained by combining and/or mixing the ingredients in an aqueous solution.

The compositions are provided as aqueous compositions that are effective in treating and applying the compositions, particularly in the applications disclosed herein that relate to the prevention of wildfires. For example, the aqueous composition may be sprayed or otherwise applied or spread directly onto the target, even from a distance.

The aqueous compositions described herein are preferably sprayable compositions. This means that the composition contains an amount of water which is flowable and/or which is present as and behaves as an aqueous solution or dispersion. The aqueous composition may contain at least 20% (w/w) water, for example at least 30% (w/w), at least 40% (w/w) or at least 50% (w/w). This may depend on the ingredients included in the composition, or the general concentration of the composition. The composition may be provided as a ready-to-use solution or dispersion containing a relatively high amount of water, or it may be provided as a concentrate, e.g. for storage and/or transport purposes, wherein it contains a relatively low water content. The concentrate can be formed into a final composition by adding an amount of water, for example, in a ratio of water to concentrate of 2:1 to 10: 1. The composition may be based on an aqueous solution (aqueous solution) wherein the one or more compounds (e.g. the one or more flame retardant compounds) and optionally the one or more other ingredients are dissolved in water, i.e. provided as an aqueous solution, and the fibrous cellulose and optionally the one or more other ingredients are dispersed in the aqueous solution.

As used herein, a flame retardant may refer to one or more agents or one or more compounds used to slow or prevent the spread of a fire or reduce its strength, or to prevent the ignition or combustion. Typically, the flame retardant comprises or is an inorganic agent or compound. Preferably, the one or more flame retardant compounds are water soluble.

In some embodiments, the flame retardant comprises ammonium phosphate. The ammonium phosphate may comprise or be diammonium hydrogen phosphate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, or a combination thereof. Generally, ammonium phosphate can be prepared by treating phosphoric acid with aqueous ammonia.

Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (MAP) (also known as Ammonium Dihydrogen Phosphate (ADP)) has the formula NH₆PO₄Or NH₄H₂PO₄. Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate is soluble in water and crystallizes from water as an anhydrous salt in the tetragonal system as elongated prisms or needles. Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate is industrially prepared by the exothermic reaction of phosphoric acid and ammonia in the correct proportions:

NH₃ + H₃PO₄ → NH₆PO₄

the MAP is then crystallized as a precipitate, which can be dissolved in water. Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate is a very inexpensive reagent, which makes it particularly advantageous for outdoor use, since large amounts of reagent are usually required.

Diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP), also known as diammonium hydrogen phosphate (IUPAC name), has the formula (NH)₄)₂HPO₄。

Ammonium phosphate is highly soluble in water. In practice, the aqueous composition may comprise ammonium phosphate in the range of 5-55% (w/w), for example in the range of 10-50% (w/w). In most cases, solutions containing ammonium phosphate in the range of 20-50% (w/w), such as 20-30% (w/w), for example, aqueous solutions saturated with ammonium phosphate, are practical for the uses disclosed herein.

It has been found that ammonium phosphate, either alone or as the primary or sole flame retardant compound, can provide effective flame retardant properties for the uses discussed herein (i.e., to prevent wildfires). Thus, in one example, the aqueous composition may contain ammonium phosphate (e.g., ammonium dihydrogen phosphate or ammonium diphosphate) as the only flame retardant in the composition, such that the composition may consist of water and ammonium phosphate. In further embodiments, the composition may be comprised of water, ammonium phosphate, and one or more of the ingredients disclosed herein, such as fibrous cellulose, phosphoric acid, ammonium sulfate, ammonia, ammonium phosphate, urea, complexing agents, magnesium compounds (e.g., magnesium sulfate), one or more surfactants, one or more colorants, and/or combinations thereof. Additives conventional in the art may also be included.

Alternatively or additionally, the aqueous composition may comprise a magnesium compound as a flame retardant. A magnesium compound may be included in the composition, which may be a magnesium salt, such as magnesium sulfate, magnesium hydroxide or hydromagnesite. Hydromagnesite may be provided as a combination of huntite and hydromagnesite. The magnesium compound may be included in an amount in the range of 15-60% (w/w), for example 30-60% (w/w), 40-60% (w/w), 15-50% (w/w), 15-40% (w/w), 15-30% (w/w), or 30-50% (w/w). Magnesium compounds can be used, for example, in situations where it is undesirable to enrich the environment, such as in naturally protected areas. In one example, the aqueous composition may contain a magnesium compound as the only flame retardant in the composition.

Magnesium sulfate is preferred. The magnesium sulfate is of the formula MgSO₄(H₂O) x inorganic salts of 0<x<7. It is a highly water-soluble salt and the solution of magnesium sulfate is almost neutral. Thus, the use of magnesium sulfate does not significantly alter the pH of the target. In most practical applications, magnesium sulfate may be used in an amount in the range of 15-50% (w/w), for example 15-40% (w/w) or 15-30% (w/w), for example as an aqueous solution saturated with magnesium sulfate.

It was found that by including an amount of fibrous cellulose into the aqueous composition, the adhesion of the aqueous solution or components thereof to the material to be treated can be significantly enhanced. This prevents the aqueous composition from flowing completely through the material, e.g. ground, turf, peat, etc., and thus allows to control the distribution of the composition to the target material, in particular by selecting the type and amount of fibrous cellulose comprised in the aqueous composition. It also prevents the composition from soaking too deep into the ground. Aqueous compositions containing fibrous cellulose also adhere effectively to vegetation, such as leaves, grasses, and other plant parts. Such compositions dry quickly when compared to compositions lacking fibrous cellulose and are more effective at protecting, for example, peat, turf, vegetation, shrubs, branches, crowns, and the like. Since cellulose is a natural material, it is biodegradable. Fibrous cellulose was found to function and be compatible with the tested compositions (e.g., compositions containing ammonium phosphate or magnesium sulfate). Thus, the present disclosure also provides methods for enhancing the adhesion of flame retardants to a target or to a material to be treated.

The fibrous cellulose may be microfibrous cellulose or nanofibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises ammonium phosphate and fibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition consists of water, ammonium phosphate and fibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises monoammonium phosphate and fibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition consists of water, monoammonium phosphate, and fibrous cellulose. In some examples, a magnesium compound is also included. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises a magnesium compound (e.g., magnesium sulfate) and a fibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition consists of water, a magnesium compound, and fibrous cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition consists of water, magnesium sulfate, and fibrous cellulose. However, in some examples, these compositions further contain additives conventional in the art, and/or one or more colorants, for example. However, in some cases, it is not desirable to include a surfactant into a composition comprising fibrous cellulose.

Cellulose polymers are naturally occurring linear polymers comprising glucose repeating units. Single polymers are stacked together to form fibrils, and these fibrils are again stacked together to form the cellulosic fibrous structure that exists in nature. Fibrous cellulose refers to such cellulosic materials in which fibrils are exposed, e.g., fibrillated cellulose. The average diameter of the fibrils or fibril bundles of the fibrous cellulose may be 2 μm or less, or 1 μm or less, such as 500 nm or less, e.g., 2 to 2000 nm, 2 to 1000 nm, 10 to 1000 nm, or 2 to 500 nm.

The cellulose may be obtained from plants, or it may be bacterial cellulose. Fibrillated cellulose, such as microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), can be obtained by a process for the fiberization of cellulose fibers. Mechanical shearing is used to separate the cellulose fibers into a three-dimensional network of fibrils or fibril bundles having a large surface area. The fibrils obtained are much smaller in diameter than the original fibers and can form a network or network structure. This provides specific properties such as very high water retention capacity and the ability to form strong gels at low concentrations due to the large number of hydroxyl groups. The fibrils may have a diameter in nanometers and a length in micrometers, which makes them long and thin. The degree of fibrillation is generally related to the diameter of the fibrils or fibril bundles obtained. The more material that is fibrillated, the thinner the fibrils or fibril bundles and thus the more hydroxyl groups are exposed, which enhances the characteristic properties of the fibrous cellulose.

The plant cellulose may be a wood-based cellulose, or it may be derived from non-wood materials, such as agricultural residues, grasses or other plant matter, such as straw, leaves, bark, seeds, husks, flowers, sugar beets, vegetables or fruits from cotton, corn, wheat, oats, rye, barley, rice, flax, hemp, abaca, sisal, jute, ramie, kenaf, bagasse, bamboo or reed. Fibrous cellulose derived from wood is generally obtained from secondary cell walls, i.e. it is a non-parenchymal tissue. It has different properties from fibrous cellulose from non-wood plants, which contain fibrils originating from primary cell walls. Generally, in cellulose from primary cell walls (i.e. parenchymal cellulose, e.g. cellulose from sugar beet etc.), microfibrils are more easily released from the fibre matrix than fibrils from wood and less energy is required for the decomposition, which is advantageous for the present use, as the material is cheap. These materials are still somewhat heterogeneous and may contain or consist of large fibril bundles. In some examples, the fibrous cellulose is a fiberized parenchymal cellulose or a non-wood cellulose obtained from soybean hulls, pea hulls, corn hulls, bagasse, corn, vegetables, rice, sugar beet, potato pulp, fruit, or mixtures thereof.

The average diameter of the fibrils or fibril bundles of the microfibrous cellulose may be 2 μm or less, or 1 μm or less, for example 500 nm or less, for example 100-. The average length of the fibrils or fibril bundles is typically more than 1 μm, and it may be 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm or even 500 μm.

The average diameter of the fibrils or fibril bundles of nanofibrillar cellulose (NFC) is 200 nm or less, such as 100 nm or less, or even 50 nm or less, such as 2-200 nm, 2-100 nm or 2-50 nm for highly fibrillated materials. The smallest fibrils (i.e., elementary fibrils) have an average diameter in the range of 2-12 nm. If the elementary fibrils are not completely separated from each other, the average total length of the entangled fibrils may be, for example, in the range of 1-100 μm, 1-50 μm, or 1-20 μm. However, if the nanofibrillar material is highly fibrillated, the elementary fibrils may be completely or almost completely separated and the average fibril length is shorter, e.g. in the range of 1-10 μm or 1-5 μm.

In an aqueous environment, the dispersion of cellulose fibrils forms a viscoelastic hydrogel network. The gel has been formed at a relatively low concentration, e.g. 0.05-0.2% (w/w). The viscoelasticity of a hydrogel can be characterized, for example, using dynamic oscillatory rheological measurements. Typically, fibrous cellulose is a shear thinning or pseudoplastic material, meaning that its viscosity depends on the speed (or force) at which the material is deformed. When the viscosity is measured in a rotational rheometer, the shear thinning behavior is seen as a decrease in viscosity with increasing shear rate. Hydrogels exhibit plastic behavior, which means that a certain shear stress (force) is required before the material starts to flow easily. The rheological properties of hydrogels can be used to describe the suspending ability of a material. The type of fibrous cellulose, e.g., the degree of fiberization, can be characterized, for example, by using viscosity (e.g., brookfield viscosity) or turbidity.

In one example, the apparent viscosity of the fibrous cellulose is measured with a Brookfield viscometer (Brookfield viscosity) or another corresponding device, such as a Brookfield DV3T viscometer (Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Middleboro, USA) equipped with a blade geometry (V-72, diameter 21.67 mm, length 43.38 mm). The product was diluted to a concentration of 1.0% (w/w) with water and the sample was stirred for 10 minutes before measurement, followed by degassing in vacuo to remove entrained air bubbles in the sample. The temperature was adjusted to 20 ℃. + -. 1 ℃ before the measurement. The viscosity of the samples was measured at a shear rate of 50 and/or 100 rpm.

The turbidity of the diluted aqueous dispersion of fibrous cellulose can be measured with a HACH P2100 turbidimeter. The product was diluted with water to a concentration of 0.1% (w/w) and the sample was stirred for 10 minutes before measurement, followed by degassing in vacuo to remove entrained air bubbles in the sample. The temperature was adjusted to 20 ℃ ± 1 ℃ before the measurement, where the emission of light scattered from the particles of the sample was detected.

In one example, the fibrous cellulose is a fibrillated parenchymal cellulose which may have a Brookfield viscosity of at least 10 mPa.s, preferably at least 100 mPa.s, for example in the range of 10-800 mPa.s, 10-500 mPa.s or 10-200 mPa.s, or in the range of 50-800 mPa.s, 100-800 mPa.s, 50-500 mPa.s, 100-500 mPa.s or 50-200 mPa.s, and/or a haze value of less than 1000 NTU, preferably in the range of 100-700 NTU, measured at a shear rate of 100 rpm at 20 ℃. + -. 1 ℃. In one example, parenchymal cellulose has a yield stress in the range of 0.1 to 100 Pa at 20 ℃ +1 ℃ in a 0.5% aqueous dispersion. This material has a relatively low degree of fibrosis, which is suitable for the present use. Furthermore, the material is simple to manufacture and therefore cheap, which is advantageous in the intended use where a large amount of the composition is required. The material is less viscous, which can be problematic when spraying aqueous compositions, and this can prevent the composition from penetrating the ground. Therefore, such materials are more preferred than, for example, highly fibrillated nano-fibrillar cellulose (especially wood cellulose), which is a very viscous and expensive material. The parenchymal cellulose fibrils may have a number average diameter of 200 nm or less, such as 2-200 nm, or 20-200 nm, such as 50-200 nm or 2-100 nm. Parenchymal cellulose may comprise cellulose from sugar beet, bagasse, tapioca, and/or potato or other suitable sources disclosed herein.

The fibrous cellulose may be chemically modified, for example anionically or cationically modified. In one example, the fibrous cellulose is cationically modified, such as cationically modified parenchymal cellulose. In chemical modification, the chemical structure of the cellulose molecule is altered by a chemical reaction ("derivatization" of the cellulose), wherein the cellulose may be derivatized to include cationic substituents. The chemical modification of cellulose is carried out at a degree of conversion which depends on the dosage of the reactants and the reaction conditions. Substituents that provide a cationic charge to the derivatized parenchymal cellulose may comprise amines, such as quaternary amines. The cationic derivative may be selected from the group consisting of alkyl-substituted nitrogen compounds, aryl-substituted nitrogen compounds, alkyl-aryl-substituted nitrogen compounds, and alkyl-substituted nitrogen halides. The derivatized parenchymal cellulose may have a degree of substitution that renders it highly dispersible in aqueous media, for example at least 0.05, preferably at least 0.1. In one example, the degree of substitution is in the range of 0.05 to 0.5, such as in the range of 0.05 to 0.3.

In one embodiment, the aqueous composition comprises fibrous cellulose in the range of 0.05-2% (w/w). Such aqueous compositions may be in the form of a gel. Since the fibrous cellulose can form a gel at a relatively low concentration, a concentration in the range of 0.01-2% (w/w) or 0.1-1% (w/w), preferably in the range of 0.1-0.5% (w/w) can be used. In tests it has been found that 0.1-0.2% (w/w) is sufficient for most purposes. Concentration refers to the concentration in the final aqueous composition that is to be applied at the site of use. More concentrated compositions may be stored and transported and diluted before use, e.g. stock solutions comprising 4% (w/w) of fibrous cellulose, e.g. 4-10% (w/w), which may be diluted e.g. 20 times. Low concentrations (typically 2% (w/w) or less, for example 0.5% (w/w) or less or 0.2% (w/w) or less) may be advantageous to achieve effective spraying of the material, which may otherwise be too viscous. On the other hand, however, the viscosity properties of the fibrous cellulose at said low concentrations may contribute to the spraying, so that the formed spray remains stable and homogeneous and may be sprayed to a longer distance than a corresponding composition lacking fibrous cellulose, which may spread uncontrollably. This facilitates application of the aqueous composition to the target under challenging conditions, such as outdoor conditions where wind may be present.

The aqueous composition may also contain other ingredients that may provide flame retardant properties, such as one or more of phosphoric acid, ammonium sulfate, ammonia, ammonium phosphate, urea, complexing agents, magnesium compounds, and/or combinations thereof. Preferably, the aqueous composition is free of boron compounds, such as boric acid. In one example, the aqueous composition further comprises ammonium sulfate. In one example, the aqueous composition further contains phosphoric acid and ammonium sulfate.

Phosphoric acid is an effective fire retardant and/or flame retardant. However, since phosphoric acid is detrimental, it is desirable to keep the content of phosphoric acid in the composition as low as possible, if present. It may be desirable for the phosphoric acid content to be 10% (w/w) or less, more particularly 7.5% (w/w) or less, or 5% (w/w) or less. Useful concentrations of phosphoric acid for preparing the composition may vary, but typically 85% (w/w) of the stock solution may be used. 75% (w/w) of the solution is also useful. The phosphoric acid may be present in the final product in an amount of about 2.5-10% (w/w), for example 2.5-7.5% (w/w) or 2.5-5% (w/w). In one example, the composition is free of phosphoric acid.

Ammonium sulfate (more particularly diammonium sulfate) may be used as a flame retardant, especially in complete or partial replacement of any phosphorus-containing compound. It is a substance that is considered safe and can even be used as a food additive. Therefore, it is suitable for use in rural or rural areas.

The ammonium sulfate may be present in an amount in the range of 2.5-25% (w/w), such as about 2.5-10% (w/w), such as 5.0-10% (w/w), 2.5-7.5% (w/w), or 5-7.5% (w/w). Typically, the ratio of ammonium sulfate to ammonium phosphate and/or phosphoric acid may be in the range of 1:2 to 99:1, for example in the range of about 3:1 to 10:1, for example about 2:1 to 1:2, or 2:1 to 1:1, for example about 1:1 (w/w). In one example, the amount of ammonium sulfate is about the same as the amount of the phosphorous-containing compound. In this way, the amount of phosphorus-containing compounds can be kept low. Ammonium sulfate also lowers the pH, thus reducing the need for one or more other pH adjusting agents. Generally, the pH of the composition should be substantially neutral, i.e., in the range of 6-8.

The aqueous composition may contain 2.5-10% (w/w) phosphoric acid and 2.5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate. In one example, the aqueous composition contains 5-10% (w/w) phosphoric acid and 5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate. In one example, the aqueous composition contains 2.5-7.5% (w/w) phosphoric acid and 2.5-7.5% (w/w) ammonium sulfate. In one example, the aqueous composition contains 2.5-7.5% (w/w) phosphoric acid and 5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate. In one example, the aqueous composition contains 2.5-5% (w/w) phosphoric acid and 5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate.

Urea also has flame retardant properties, but it can also be considered as an expanding agent. Typically about 46% urea stock solution is useful. The urea may be present in an amount in the range of 2-10% (w/w), for example in the range of 3-5% (w/w) of the final composition.

In one example, the composition further comprises a surfactant. Surfactants help the composition enter the target by reducing the surface tension between the liquid (composition) and the solid (e.g., ground, dirt, under forest, brush, grass, moss, etc.). This is advantageous, especially when it is desired to deeply treat the ground or the like, i.e. to be able to penetrate far below the surface of the ground, even to a depth of 50 cm or 100 cm or more, for example a few meters, for example up to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 meters. This is necessary to prevent or extinguish for example ground, turf or peat fires, where the fire can burn slowly by smoldering under the surface.

Any suitable surfactant may be used, for example ionic or non-ionic. The surfactant may be added at any step during the manufacture of the composition. The surfactant may be selected from, for example, sulfonates, carboxylic acids, carboxylates, carboxymethyl cellulose, or catechins. Examples of surfactants include WP-3 supplied by Fainted Ltd, Finland. The one or more surfactants may be present in an amount in the range of 0.1-2.0 (w/w), such as 0.1-1.0%, more particularly 0.1-0.5% (w/w). In most cases, an amount in the range of 0.1-0.2% (w/w) is sufficient. However, it may not be desirable to include surfactants at least at high levels in compositions where effective adhesion properties are desired, especially compositions containing fibrous cellulose.

The intumescent agents may also be used as flame retardants in normally flammable compositions. By definition, swelling is the state of swelling or distension. An intumescent coating is a coating that will expand or expand to form a honeycomb structure when exposed to sufficient heat. Intumescent coatings protect substrates that are sensitive to heat and/or fire by forming a flame retardant, insulating barrier over the substrate. Other bulking agents that may be used in the composition include guanidine, guanidine hydrochloride, glycine and other water soluble amino acids and derivatives thereof (e.g., amides).

In another example, the composition further comprises a pH adjusting agent, such as any suitable inorganic or organic acid, such as hydrochloric acid or citric acid, or any suitable base, such as ammonia or NaOH. A pH adjuster may be added to neutralize the pH of the solution. The pH may be adjusted to a range of 6-8, for example to about 7.

The composition may comprise a complexing agent, for example selected from one or more of EDTA, EGTA, nitrilotriacetic acid, diethylene pentaacetic acid, dodecanetetraacetic acid and salts thereof. In one particular example, the complexing agent is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The complexing agent may be present in an amount of about 0.3-2% (w/w), for example about 0.5-1.5% (w/w).

In another example, the composition further comprises one or more colorants, such as one or more water-soluble colorants. The colorant may comprise, for example, iron sulphate or a dye, for example an organic dye, for example a dye used in the food industry, for example an azo dye. The one or more colorants may be included in an amount in the range of 0.01-0.1% (w/w), such as 0.05-0.1% (w/w). Examples of suitable dyes include Ponceau 4^R((8Z) -7-oxo-8- [ (4-sulfonaphthalen-1-yl) hydrazono)]Trisodium naphthalene-1, 3-disulfonate) and quinoline yellow (sodium 2- (1, 3-dioxoindan-2-yl) quinoline disulfonate).

If the aqueous composition contains a colorant (e.g., a dye), the treated areas can be readily distinguished from the untreated areas. This is particularly important when forming the guard region. If application of the composition is paused, it can reliably continue from the visible treated areas, which reduces the risk of leaving untreated areas. The colorant may be a food grade colorant which is non-toxic and therefore may be used in nature. For example, different colors may be provided and selected according to the target and/or season.

In one example, the aqueous composition comprises ammonium dihydrogen phosphate and microfibrous cellulose, such as microfibrous parenchymal cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, magnesium sulfate, and microfibrous cellulose, such as microfibrous parenchymal cellulose. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, magnesium sulfate, and a surfactant. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises monoammonium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, urea, and EDTA. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises magnesium sulfate and a surfactant. In one example, the aqueous composition comprises magnesium sulfate, urea, and EDTA. If desired, the pH of the composition can be adjusted by using an acid or base, for example, with HCl or ammonia. The composition may be obtained by mixing the ingredients, for example, in water, or if one or more ingredients are provided as an aqueous solution, other ingredients may be added to the aqueous solution, and further water may be added if necessary.

In one example, the aqueous flame retardant composition is obtained by a) mixing an aqueous ammonia solution, ammonium sulfate, and phosphoric acid, b) adding ammonium phosphate, such as monoammonium phosphate or diammonium phosphate, after about 30 minutes, and c) adding urea and a complexing agent after about 15 minutes. In one example, in step b), the pH is adjusted to about 7 with a pH adjuster. In another example, a charring agent may be added in step c).

Any suitable surfactant may be used. The surfactant may be added at any step, for example at step c). The fibrous cellulose may be added last, or it may be added in any of the preceding steps a), b) or c).

In one example, the aqueous composition contains 13-20% (w/w) ammonium phosphate, 2.5-10% (w/w) phosphoric acid, and 2.5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate. In another example, the aqueous composition comprises 13-20% (w/w) ammonium phosphate, 2.5-10% (w/w) phosphoric acid, 2.5-10% (w/w) ammonium sulfate, 15-20% (w/w) ammonia, 3-5% (w/w) urea, and 0.5-1.5% (w/w) complexing agent. In one example, about half of the phosphoric acid is replaced with ammonium sulfate, i.e., the ratio of phosphoric acid to ammonium sulfate is about 50: 50.

The composition is present as an aqueous solution. In the formulations disclosed herein, water may be added to 100%. In one example, aqueous ammonia is used as the diluent when composing the composition. The compositions may be used as such or they may be further diluted, for example with water to 25-50% (w/w).

The composition may be provided in different forms for different uses, e.g. for forest fires, for ground fires, for peat or turf fires, for fire extinguishing purposes, etc. The composition may be provided as a concentrate, for example diluted with water before use, for example by adding 1-3 parts of water to one part of the concentrate.

The present application provides a method for preventing wildfires in a target, the method comprising

-providing an aqueous composition as disclosed herein,

-applying the aqueous composition to the target.

The target may include any target disclosed herein, such as an external and/or natural area. Examples of suitable targets include rural and rural areas such as areas of terrain, ground, turf, peat, forest, bushes, shrubs, desert, grass, mountains, vegetation, grassland, etc. In particular, the target may comprise the ground and vegetation in and/or on the ground, including turf and peat.

The target may be treated by any suitable method, for example by spraying, for example by using pressure to assist the composition in penetrating the ground, turf, peat or the like. The aqueous composition may be applied in-air or from the ground.

The aqueous composition may be prepared and provided, preferably recovered and/or isolated, for example as a final product. Thereafter, it may be applied to a suitable container for storage, transport and/or use. The container may be a transportable container, such as a portable container or a container mounted or integrated into a vehicle. The container may be a sealed container, for example a waterproof and/or airtight container.

In one embodiment, the method comprises applying the aqueous composition to the target by spraying. In such cases, the method may comprise providing the aqueous composition in a container. The aqueous composition may be provided in a suitable container operatively connected to a pressure source, for example in a pressurized container or in a container connected to a compressor, pump, pressurized air or propellant or other pressure source. The aqueous composition may be sprayed through one or more nozzles. The spray device arrangement may be portable, or it may be attached to a vehicle.

The aqueous composition may be applied by any other suitable method, for example by spraying or dripping from an aircraft.

In one embodiment, the wildfire is selected from the group consisting of ground, turf, peat, crawling or surface, ladder and tree-crown, forest-crown and aerial fires.

Even when treating a target, live trees can be sprayed with the composition, the method of treating wood products (e.g. boards or boards), for example by impregnation, is completely different and is therefore excluded from the methods and uses of the present invention.

The aqueous composition may be provided as a ready-to-use aqueous solution, or the aqueous composition may be prepared from a concentrate or diluted prior to use. The aqueous composition may be provided in one or more containers, and any suitable means for applying the solution may be provided, for example as a means included in the container or as a separate apparatus. The container may contain a pressure source, such as a propellant or pressurized air, so it may be pressurized, or it may be connected, or it may be connectable to a pressure source, such as pressurized air, to enable the contents of the container to be nebulized. The container may comprise means for spraying the composition, such as a nozzle. The container may also be in the form of a fire extinguisher. The container may be portable, e.g. in or as a backpack or the like, or it may be on wheels or the like, e.g. a towable container. The volume of the portable container may be, for example, in the range of 1-50 liters. The container may be integrated or mounted in a vehicle (e.g. a ground vehicle) or an aircraft.

One embodiment provides a container comprising the aqueous composition described herein, wherein the container may include instructions or other instructions for using the aqueous composition for preventing wildfires. The instructions or directions may include, for example, text and/or one or more images explaining the intended use, a trade name indicating the use, or a link to an external information source providing the instructions.

The container may be any suitable container, such as a can, cartridge, bottle, bag, tube, and the like. The container may also be a vehicle tyre, or a bag or inner tube within a vehicle tyre. This may apply, for example, to vehicles used in external and/or natural areas, such as rural or rural areas, such as areas of terrain, ground, turf, peat, forest, bushes, shrubs, desert, grass, mountains, vegetation and grassland. Examples of such vehicles include forestry machines, (forestry) harvesters, tractors, trucks, automobiles, bulldozers, or any other suitable work machine. When using such vehicles, which are usually heavy and may include other working devices, there is a risk of uncontrolled heat, sparks, etc., which may cause fires, especially in dry rural or rural areas. It is therefore advantageous to integrate the reservoir of the aqueous composition in the vehicle, so that the flame retardant or fire extinguishing composition can be sprayed immediately when needed. The tire is a good place to store the aqueous composition because it also includes pressure, which can be used to spray the composition. Any suitable aqueous flame retardant or fire extinguishing composition may be stored in the tire.

The present application provides a tyre or wheel, such as a vehicle tyre or wheel, comprising an inner container, preferably an elastic inner container, such as a bag or inner tube, arranged to receive an aqueous fire retardant or fire fighting composition, i.e. a liquid, the inner container being connected to a valve for releasing the aqueous composition. "inner" refers to the inside of a tire or wheel, i.e., to the tire cavity or air space. The inner container is closed or it may be closed, for example by closing a valve, so that it is impermeable or water/liquid and/or gas tight. The inner container may be foldable. The inner container is liquid-expandable, i.e. it is arranged to receive or be filled with a liquid, such as water or other aqueous liquid, e.g. an aqueous fire-retardant composition containing one or more fire-retardant and/or fire-extinguishing compounds, such as any of the compositions disclosed herein. The tire or wheel may be used in, or it may be a part of, a fire retardant application or spray device arrangement or system. The flame retardant composition comprising fibrous cellulose of the present invention provides rheological properties that help to keep the composition in a homogeneous form and thus prevent precipitation of any ingredients, which is particularly suitable for storing aqueous compositions in the inner container in a vehicle tyre or wheel. Such a stable and homogeneous composition does not cause imbalance of the wheel.

The present application also provides an inner container such as described herein arranged to be mounted in a tyre or wheel and/or on a rim. One embodiment provides an inner container in the form of a continuous annular elastic tube arranged to be mounted in a tyre or wheel and/or on a rim, the inner container being arranged to receive an aqueous flame retardant or fire extinguishing composition, such as an aqueous composition as described herein, and being connected to a valve for releasing the aqueous composition.

The tires, wheels, rims and/or inner containers discussed herein may be used in vehicles, such as in all terrain vehicles, forestry machines, (forestry) harvesters, tractors, trucks, automobiles, bulldozers or any other suitable work machines. This means that the dimensions, material or materials and other properties may be adapted for such use and compatible with such vehicles and/or wheels thereof.

The term "wheel" may refer to a rim containing a tire, more particularly a tubeless and/or compatible tire mounted on the rim. Sometimes, the word "tire" may also be used to refer to a wheel. However, generally, a tire (tyre) (or tire (tire)) refers to an annular member surrounding a rim of a wheel to transfer the load of a vehicle from an axle through the wheel to the ground and provide traction on a driving surface. Examples of common materials for such pneumatic tires include synthetic rubber, natural rubber, fabric and wire, as well as carbon black and other compounds. The pneumatic tires are arranged to receive their air through a valve stem, which is a different valve than the valve used to deliver the aqueous flame-retardant composition from the inner container. In one embodiment, the valve is a valve separate from the air input valve of the tire or wheel. The valve is mounted or arranged to be mounted to the rim, for example to a hole or aperture in the rim.

The inner container is not the inner tube of the tire, which is provided to fill the entire interior of the tire and prevent air leakage. Even when filled with liquid, the inner container does not fill the entire interior of the tire or wheel. The inner container is arranged to fit into the tyre or wheel in such a way that it leaves or maintains the air space and/or the inner container fills only a part of the tyre cavity, e.g. the inner container may use at most 80% of the inner space of the tyre or wheel, e.g. at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30% or at most 20% of the air space or cavity of the tyre or wheel. Thus, the inner container divides the space inside the tyre or wheel into two or more compartments or chambers, one compartment or chamber being arranged to receive a gas (e.g. air) and one compartment or chamber being arranged to receive a liquid (e.g. an aqueous flame retardant composition). In this way, the wheel may retain its original properties, such as sufficient air pressure, which is also required to operate the flame retardant application or spraying device.

The material or materials of the inner container are selected in such a way that they are compatible with the aqueous flame retardant composition (in particular the compound or compounds included in the composition) and other properties of the composition (e.g. rheological properties). One or more materials may be selected in such a way that the compounds of the composition do not deteriorate the structure of the inner container, e.g. the wall of the inner container. The material and wall thickness of the inner container are chosen in such a way that they can withstand the gas and air pressure and pressure variations in the tire or wheel during storage and use. The wall thickness may for example be in the range of 1-3 mm, for example 1-2 mm. The inner container may be made of rubber, silicone and/or elastomeric plastic or other suitable elastomeric material or combinations thereof, including composites. Such materials may be used, inter alia, with the flame retardant compounds disclosed herein.

The wheel or tyre may comprise one or more inner containers which may be in the form of a continuous annular elastomeric tube. The elastic material is capable of stretching, and more particularly, capable of stretching so as to return to an original shape or size when the force is released. The tube may be formed of an elastic material, or it may comprise an elastic material, such as rubber, silicone, plastic, or a combination thereof, such as a composite material. It may contain an enhancement section. The continuous annular elastomeric tube may be arranged to fit onto the rim, in particular in such a way that a tire (e.g. any compatible and/or suitable tire) may be mounted onto the rim, and also to enclose the inner continuous annular elastomeric tube in such a way that gas pressure, when applied to the tire, will affect the elastomeric tube and induce sufficient pressure within the tube. The inner container may be pressurized by air pressure in the tire or wheel. Thus, when released by a valve or the like, the liquid content of the resilient tube will be output by pressure, preferably with a force that provides a suitable spray of liquid. Any other suitable inner container may be installed and may therefore also function in a similar manner. The gas pressure is typically air, providing a suitable source of air pressure when the tire is mounted on the rim and filled with air.

The vehicle tires may be designed for vehicles for forest or ground work or similar work, such as tractors, for example forest tractors, or all-terrain vehicles or other suitable vehicles. The tyres or wheels of such vehicles are relatively large, so that even hundreds of litres of the aqueous composition can be stored in the tyres while still including sufficient gas pressure in the tyres. The bag or inner tube may be arranged to receive 100 litres or more of liquid, such as 200 litres or more, 300 litres or more, 500 litres or more, up to 1000 litres, such as 100-. Such a tire or wheel of a vehicle is particularly suitable for the construction of the invention because the speed of the vehicle is usually not so high that the inner container mounted inside the tire or wheel will cause problems, such as imbalance, in the steering or other handling of the vehicle when the tire or wheel is rotating.

In one example, the tire contains a bag or inner tube made of a flexible and/or elastomeric material for the aqueous composition, which is attached to a valve in the wheel of the tire. The pressure inside the tire can be used to release the composition inside the bag or the inner tire. The bag or inner tube may be connected to the valve with a tube, e.g. a flexible and/or elastic tube, e.g. a tube comprising plastic, rubber, etc. The valve may be a valve separate from the air valve of the tire. The valve may contain means for releasing the aqueous composition, which is in a pressurized state inside the tyre. Another tube may be connected to the valve for applying and/or spraying the aqueous composition to a target. The composition may be released in a similar manner through the air valve of the tire if the composition is inside the tire without any inner bag or tube.

The present disclosure provides a vehicle that includes a tire in the vehicle, and more particularly, in a wheel of the vehicle. By wheel is meant any wheel below the vehicle, i.e. a wheel mounted on the vehicle, such as a drive wheel and/or a trailer wheel, which is typically arranged to be in contact with the ground, road or other support on which the vehicle is operating. Any spare wheel not in use can be excluded. It would be advantageous to have a reservoir of such an aqueous flame retardant composition in a tire or wheel, which is already available outside the vehicle. For example, a vehicle used outdoors, such as at a terrain, forest, or any other target disclosed herein, may itself pose a risk of fire, or it may be operated at a fire scene. Such vehicles include vehicles for forest or ground work or similar work, such as tractors, e.g. forest tractors, or all-terrain vehicles or other suitable vehicles, which have wheels and tires, more particularly which operate on the wheels and tires.

Such vehicles may require periodic use of the chain on the wheels, for example under challenging conditions, the chain may cause sparks, for example when hitting rocks or metal, and thus cause wildfires. Other parts of the vehicle, rocks, flammable chemicals and/or other objects and/or substances may also pose a fire or fire risk. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a reservoir of flame retardant that is immediately available from a tire installed in a vehicle. Once a fire is detected, a compatible hose may be inserted into a valve or similar output device in the wheel or tire, and the flame retardant or other aqueous liquid may be sprayed onto the target, preferably through a nozzle in the hose. The container is always available in an open position, so there is no need to start opening hatches, doors, boots, etc. and to find a fire retardant container, and possibly also to move the container to a more convenient position. A compatible hose or similar output device connectable to the valve may be provided, optionally equipped with a nozzle or other directing and/or output device, for example stored in the vehicle.

The wheel may include one or more valves, for example one or more valves in the rim, wherein output components or devices are available from the wheel for connection to compatible hoses, tubes, etc. An existing rim or similar component may be modified to include such one or more additional valves. For example, one or more holes may be drilled in the rim, the one or more holes being arranged to receive the valve. The one or more valves may be operatively connected by a tube to a bag or inner tube inside the tire, for example an inner tube mounted on a rim, such that the bag or inner tube may be filled with an aqueous liquid (preferably a fire retardant) through the valve and during use the liquid may be output through the same and/or different valve(s) to provide the liquid to a desired target. The valve may include or be connected or connectable to a nozzle, hose, tube, and/or similar output device for spraying or otherwise outputting a liquid. The valve or connecting part may comprise means for opening and/or closing the valve and/or the liquid flow, such as manual means or means for remote control.

One or more valves and/or output devices may be arranged to spray or otherwise output the liquid to a desired location or position near or around the vehicle, such as beside a tire or wheel. By using such an arrangement, a protection zone or the like can be formed, particularly when driving a vehicle. Such treated areas may be formed around a fire, around a fire-risk area, or on the side of a roadway (e.g., on a shoulder). In such a case, the vehicle operator may create a protected zone around the detected fire or at a desired area or location immediately when needed. This saves a lot of time and can insulate the fire and preferably extinguish the fire already at the time of the fire, so that damage is minimal. A remotely controllable system, e.g. wirelessly, may be provided so that an output device, e.g. a valve or other device connected to the valve, may be opened and/or closed remotely, e.g. from the cabin or cab of the vehicle, to output liquid from the inner container. Such a valve may be positioned to provide a spray to a desired location alongside a tire, wheel, or vehicle.

The aqueous composition may be sprayed or otherwise applied to the target to form a protected zone or other area, for example at least partially surrounding an existing fire. The protection zone may be elongate, with a width in the range 1 to 500 metres. The required width of the protected area depends on the circumstances, for example, a few meters of protected area may be sufficient, for example 1-10 meters, if there is no or very little vegetation. On the other hand, if there are tall trees, a protection zone having a width at least twice the height of the trees may be required, for example in the range of 20-60 meters, or more, for example 20-100 meters. Furthermore, if there is a risk of fire spreading due to burning of the tree parts carried by the wind, an even wider protection zone may be required, for example 50-200 meters, or even 100-500 meters.

The underground fire may be detected by using a thermal camera or similar heat sensitive detection device. Fire smoldering deep in the ground, such as turf or peat, can be detected, even at depths of several meters, and the area can be treated with an aqueous composition. One specific example of such a fire is a concealed fire caused by a military exercise or operation, where grenades or tracers hit the ground and may cause a fire deep in the ground and may not be visible within hours, e.g. 2-72 hours. In one example, a drone equipped with a heat sensitive detection device (e.g., a remotely controlled drone or an automated drone) is used to detect a fire, which may be visible or hidden. Typically, abnormally high temperatures are detected that trigger one or more desired behaviors. The drone may be equipped with a container containing the aqueous composition, and means for applying the aqueous composition to the target, for example a remotely controllable means for spraying the composition to the target. When a fire is detected with the heat sensitive detection device, it can be seen in the remotely received video images, the drone can be steered to the target, and the aqueous composition can be remotely released to the area in need of treatment. Depending on the size of the drone, a large amount of the composition, for example 1-300 liters, may be carried with the drone. Even relatively small amounts of the composition of the invention may be sufficient to treat a target and even extinguish a fire, and thus the composition is particularly suitable for such drone use. The drone may be partially or fully automated, and when required, the drone may autonomously fill its reservoir or reservoirs with an aqueous composition, recharge its batteries, and execute flight procedures, for example at determined intervals (e.g. every 30 or 60 minutes). When the drone detects a fire, it may automatically trigger a fire alarm and/or begin treating the target with the composition.

Examples

The following compositions were prepared and tested as flame retardants with samples obtained from nature, such as turf blocks, peat blocks or plots with vegetation, and in areas of nature. The compositions exhibit good flame retardant properties. Different compositions may be used for different purposes.

Example 1

An aqueous composition comprising monoammonium phosphate is prepared by adding monoammonium phosphate (BonsoGuard) to water and mixing. The content of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate was 50% (w/w).

Example 2

An aqueous composition comprising 50% (w/w) of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (BonsoGuard) and 0.2% (w/w) of microfibrous parenchymal cellulose from beet pulp (Betulium MFC, Betulium Oy) was prepared. The ingredients are mixed to obtain the ready-to-use composition.

Example 3

An aqueous composition comprising 25% (w/w) monoammonium phosphate (BonsoGuard), 50% (w/w) magnesium sulfate (Carl Roth GmbH) and 0.2% (w/w) microfibrous parenchymal cellulose from beet pulp (Betulium MFC, Betulium Oy) was prepared. The ingredients are mixed to obtain the ready-to-use composition.

Example 4

An aqueous composition comprising 25% (w/w) monoammonium phosphate (BonsoGuard 69), 50% (w/w) magnesium sulfate (Carl Roth GmbH) and 0.2% (w/w) Greenfain WP3 surfactant (Faintend) was prepared. The ingredients are mixed to obtain the ready-to-use composition.

Example 5

An aqueous composition comprising 50% (w/w) magnesium sulphate (Carl Roth GmbH) and 0.2% (w/w) Greenfain WP3 surfactant (Fainted) was prepared. The ingredients are mixed to obtain the ready-to-use composition.

Example 6

An aqueous composition comprising 50% (w/w) magnesium sulfate (Carl Roth GmbH) and 0.2% (w/w) of microfibrous parenchymal cellulose (Betulium MFC, Betulium Oy) from beet pulp was prepared. The ingredients are mixed to obtain the ready-to-use composition.

Example 7

1 liter of an aqueous composition was prepared by combining 600 g of water, 242 g of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, 153 g of magnesium sulfate, 75 g of aqueous urea (40%), 20 g of HCl and 10 g of aqueous EDTA.

The composition remained homogeneous for more than one year. When applied to wood chips, the chips do not clump, but remain separate.

Example 8

The compositions disclosed herein were used for the fire tests disclosed in figures 1-10. The tested compositions contained ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (BonsoGuard 69), magnesium sulfate, and some also microfibrillated parenchymal cellulose (Betulium MFC).

Fig. 1-3 show fire testing at terrain. Fig. 2 shows the results after water treatment, and fig. 3 shows the results after treatment with an aqueous composition comprising diammonium phosphate, ammonium sulfate, phosphoric acid, urea and EDTA, wherein the protected zone can be seen in the middle of the image in the vertical direction. The untreated burned area was grey, but the treated area did not burn, and thus it retained the original colour of the plant material (not visible in the grey scale image).

In fig. 4, a series of turf test blocks are lined up on the ground. From left to right the front test block was treated with 1) monoammonium phosphate ("69"), 2) magnesium sulfate ("1308"), 3) magnesium sulfate ("1308") and fibrous cellulose ("MFC"), each treated with 3 liters per square meter of the aqueous composition. The corresponding test block of the following row is not processed.

Fig. 5 shows another view of the same test block. It can be seen from the figure that the progress of the fire stops at the edges of the treated block, even if the intensity of the fire is very high at the beginning. Some of the treated pieces darkened at their surface, but the fire did not penetrate the pieces or did not continue even if the pieces were in contact with the fire for an extended period of time.

Fig. 6 and 7 show the progression of the fire in the untreated block (background) and how the treated block did not ignite. It is also seen that a composition comprising fibrous cellulose is also bonded to the surface of the block.

The crushed turf is treated with an aqueous composition. As can be seen from fig. 8, there was no continued fire in the treated crushed turf.

The turf bales are treated with an aqueous composition comprising 25% monoammonium phosphate and ignited. As can be seen in fig. 9 and 10, the treated turf bale only darkens at the surface, but fire does not enter the bale. Even though the treated bale only charred and reddened when the gas burner was used, the light emission was immediately stopped when the gas burner was withdrawn. In an untreated bale, the fire and surfaces penetrating into the interior of the bale become charred and become grey.

Example 9

Different samples were treated with a composition comprising 50% (w/w) of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (Bonsogurard) and 0.2% (w/w) of microfibrous parenchymal cellulose from beet pulp (Betulium MFC, Betulium Oy). Samples were tested and analyzed for ignition and combustion. The results are shown in table 1 of fig. 11. Fig. 12 shows the heat release rate versus time. Untreated forest felling (peak first) and untreated peat (peak second at first) provided the highest initial heat release and heat release remained high for extended periods of time. On the other hand, especially the treated peat does not release heat at all at the beginning and even over a longer period of time the heat release is low.