Abstract: Compositions and methods for emulsifying a petroleum product that has been spilled upon a portion of the earth's surface or that is burning are based upon use of a nonionic, primary surfactant composition comprising a first ethoxylated sorbitol oleate and, preferably, a second ethoxylated sorbitol oleate, and a nonionic, secondary surfactant that is capable of stabilizing and solubilizing the primary surfactant composition such that the resulting emulsifying compositions have a hydrophilic/lipophilic balance between about 12.0 and about 13.5.

Abstract: Biodegradable foam compositions for extinguishing class B fires are disclosed that may be in either a liquid concentrate or a powder concentrate form. The concentrates comprise (1) a foaming group including a high-foaming surfactant such as an alkyl polyglycoside and a plurality of viscosity-reducing agents, for example, polyethylene glycol, and (2) a stiffening group including a water-soluble polymer such as a natural gum, e.g., xanthan gum, and a viscosity-reducing agent. The powder concentrate further comprises a sorption agent.