| AURI designates project development funds |
TetraKO, LLC, the fire suppression subsidiary of EarthClean Corporation, recently announced that the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) of Minnesota has approved a cost-share grant in the amount of $300,000. The monies, funded by AURI, the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council and the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, are for TetraKO to develop a Class B or Class A & B fire suppressant.
“We are excited and thrilled to have been selected by AURI for assistance in our research and development of a bio-based TetraKO Class B fire suppressant formula specifically for combustible liquids, such as gasoline and industrial chemicals,” said Doug Ruth, TetraKO, LLC chief executive officer. “Our TetraKO technology is based on cornstarch and other renewable ag ingredients and are, therefore, an excellent fit for the AURI mission of identifying new technologies that advance the market opportunities for agriculturally-based products.”
AURI helps develop new uses for agricultural products through science and technology, partnering with businesses and entrepreneurs to bring ideas to reality through its three service areas: applied research and development, scientific assistance, and innovation networking. To access AURI cost-share assistance, an applicant must be actively working with an AURI project development team. AURI personnel, labs, and pilot plants are available to assist Minnesota-based clients.
TetraKO technology is biodegradable and non-toxic, and has proven to be far superior to water and Class-A foam in firefighting. In March, 2012, TetraKO technology was acknowledged in an extensive white paper (“Next Generation Water Enhancer for Fire Protection and Suppression in Wildland and Structural Applications”) by the Technology Council of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).