Patent attributes
A unique method for suppressing the spread of and extinguishing underground electrical fires in confined areas such as tunnels and conduits. A super absorbent polymer is mixed with water to form a hydrated super absorbent polymer and this admixture is applied to an electrical fire. The admixture has superior fire suppression and extinguishing properties than the fire suppression and extinguishing properties of plain water. The admixture has the ability to cling to the object(s) to which it has been applied and both cool down the object(s) and block the fire from reaching the object(s). The super absorbent polymer and water admixture also encapsulates the noxious and toxic gases produced by electrical fires and prevents the release of these toxic gases into the atmosphere. Finally, the super absorbent polymer and water mixture retains the ash, particulates, and other byproducts of the electrical fire to enable a thorough cleanup.