Under normal conditions, in the atmosphere we breathe, the oxygen concentration is approximately 20-22%. At this concentration, any combustible substance can easily ignite. Our goal during fire suppression is to lower this concentration below a threshold of 15%. By reducing the oxygen supply to the fire source, the combustion process is halted.

Why is carbon dioxide used in addition to argon and nitrogen in Inergen INEI?

Carbon dioxide (a suffocating gas) is intentionally added to this fire extinguishing agent to increase the CO2 concentration in the room if there are people present. According to European standards, firefighting can commence before people evacuate the protected area. The main concern with all diluting gases is the potential for oxygen concentration to drop below a level at which a person can breathe normally and comfortably. A concentration of 4% carbon dioxide, which is created when using such a fire extinguishing agent, is non-toxic and not hazardous to humans. However, it enhances the absorption of oxygen into the bloodstream, thereby enriching the blood more intensively. Even in conditions of limited oxygen in the protected area, a person can breathe normally and evacuate without any consequences for their health.

Ecological safety