Data centre fire suppression systems use PFAS chemicals
Modern data centres increasingly rely on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to manage high heat levels and mitigate fire risks associated with 24/7 server operations.
The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) reported that these synthetic chemicals are integral to clean agent fire suppression systems such as FM-200 and Novec 1230.
Unlike water-based alternatives, these agents are non-conductive and leave no residue – properties that prevent damage to sensitive electrical equipment and servers.
The durability of the carbon-fluorine bonds in these materials makes them resistant to environmental breakdown.
This persistence has led to the nickname forever chemicals because they accumulate in human tissue and ecosystems over time.
Toxic effects on the liver, blood, and kidneys are associated with bioaccumulation of these substances.
Market shifts and the phase out of Novec 1230
Fire safety procurement may face changes as major manufacturers move away from producing certain clean agents used in data centre environments.
The manufacturing conglomerate 3M confirmed it ended all PFAS manufacturing after previously announcing a deadline of late 2025.
This decision includes the cessation of Novec 1230 production.
Analysis of fire outbreaks in these facilities since 2021 indicates that risks often stem from equipment failures and lithium-ion battery failures in semiconductors.
Matt Dunn, a PFAS scientist at Tetra Tech, stated: “PFAS regulation represents a unique struggle due to how widespread the chemicals are.
“Since PFAS are in everyday products that are used by every American, from food to bath products, the question becomes: where do you draw the line?”
“Do you go after the user, or do you go after the manufacturer,” Dunn asks.
“And understanding the difference there is very important.”
Regulatory frameworks and legislative proposals
Federal and state authorities are evaluating different methods to manage the presence of these chemicals in industrial infrastructure.
Maine and Minnesota have introduced legislation to restrict products containing intentionally-added chemicals, though some fire safety applications remain exempt.
The 119th Congress proposed the Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act of 2025 (H.R.6668) to establish emission limitations under the Clean Water Act.
The PFAS Research and Development Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R.6667) seeks to extend funding for research into these substances.
A 2025 executive order directed several federal departments to expedite permitting processes for data centre infrastructure.
These fast-track initiatives cover the materials required for coolants, semiconductors, and fire suppressants.