Protecting lives and the planet

November 8, 2024

BIOEX has been a pioneer in the firefighting foam industry since its founding in 1998. Can you share with us the journey of BIOEX from its inception?

Since our founding in 1998, BIOEX has been dedicated to the research, development, and manufacturing of high-performance and eco-friendly firefighting foam concentrates. In 2002, after an extensive research and development program, we launched ECOPOL, the first-ever fluorine-free and eco-friendly multipurpose foam concentrate (FFF-AR: Fluorine-Free Foam – Alcohol Resistant) available on the market.

Our team, composed of doctors and engineers in chemistry, works daily to improve our formulas. Our foam concentrates are tailored to the industrial, maritime, aviation, and firefighting sectors, ensuring maximum efficiency in extinguishing various types of fires, including Class A and B fires, such as solid and flammable liquid fires.

As part of LEADER GROUP BIOEX benefits from a strong network both nationally and internationally.

To support our rapid growth and meet the increasing demand for our innovative solutions, we strategically relocated to a state-of-the-art facility near Lyon, France, in 2020. This modern site has significantly expanded our production and storage capacities, allowing us to enhance efficiency and ensure the dedicated production of fluorine-free foam concentrates. This upgrade positions us to better serve our global clients and stay ahead of market needs.

In addition, the launch of BIOEX Inc. in the United States marks a pivotal milestone in our expansion strategy. By establishing a strong local presence, we are now able to more effectively cater to the specific requirements of our U.S. customers, ensuring faster delivery and more responsive service.

With over 26 years of expertise, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Our mission is clear: to develop high-performance foam concentrates that not only excel in firefighting but also align with the global shift toward environmentally sustainable solutions.

What were the key challenges and milestones during the development of ECOPOL, the world’s first multipurpose fluorine-free foam concentrate?

In 2002, BIOEX revolutionised the firefighting industry with the launch of ECOPOL, the world’s first fluorine-free foam concentrate (FFF-AR) effective on both Class A and B fires. At a time when fluorinated foams dominated the market, ECOPOL stood as a groundbreaking innovation, proving that eco-friendly solutions could deliver the same, if not superior, fire-extinguishing power as their fluorinated counterparts.

With growing concerns about fluorinated compounds, ECOPOL has become the go-to solution for forward-thinking organisations committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainable operations. Companies certified with ISO 14001 and ISO 26000 are turning to our fluorine-free foams range to align their fire protection strategies with their environmental management goals.

Formulated without any added PFAS—such as PFOS, PFOA, PFHxA, and PFHxS—ECOPOL is fully compliant with the most stringent global regulations on fluorinated compounds. It is also GreenScreen certified, further validating our unwavering commitment to sustainability. Unlike traditional foams, ECOPOL leaves no lasting environmental footprint: it is biodegradable, non-toxic, and designed to protect not just people and property, but also the planet.

To read the full article, see our last issue here.