For over a century, fire protection has relied primarily on water and chemical agents. While these methods can prevent catastrophic fires, the aftermath often involves significant cleanup and restoration costs. However, a new approach may be on the horizon.
Sonic Fire Tech, an Ohio-based startup, is developing a sound-powered fire suppression system that claims to extinguish fires within seconds while avoiding the collateral damage associated with traditional methods. On [Current Date], the company announced it has raised $15 million in a funding round led by the O.H.I.O. Fund, with participation from Khosla Ventures. This follows a $3.5 million seed round secured in October 2025.
The new capital will enable Sonic Fire Tech to expand its team and conduct the extensive testing required to obtain approval from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which establishes model codes adopted by fire departments across the United States. While the approval process typically takes about three years, co-founder and CEO Geoff Bruder expressed optimism that Sonic Fire Tech's timeline will be "significantly shorter."
Bruder attributes this confidence to the system's unique advantage: it leaves no residue after activation. Unlike traditional suppressants that require extensive cleanup, Sonic Fire Tech's approach simplifies the testing process, as labs do not need to spend hours preparing for repeated trials.
This benefit extends to real-world applications. For instance, commercial kitchens often face months of downtime after a fire, with approximately 75% never reopening, according to Remington Bixby Hotchkis, the company's COO. By minimizing damage and cleanup, Sonic Fire Tech's system could help businesses recover faster.
How It Works
The acoustic fire suppression system uses sound generators installed in ceilings, connected via PVC pipes, to emit inaudible infrasonic waves around 20 Hz when sensors detect a fire. These waves bombard the flames, disrupting combustion without any physical suppressant.
"We are the only technology that creates its own suppressant without collateral damage," Hotchkis stated. "False alarms are less of a concern for us. We deploy within seconds."
This rapid response could also appeal to the insurance industry. Sonic Fire Tech is in discussions with insurers about potential premium discounts for properties equipped with the system. Such endorsements could accelerate market adoption.
Addressing Challenging Fire Types
The technology shows promise in tackling one of the most difficult fire categories: lithium-ion battery fires. In preliminary tests, the system did not fully extinguish the fire but successfully contained it. "If we're able to keep the outer casing from lighting fire, we can potentially stop cell-to-cell spread and limit the size of the fire," Bruder explained.
Future Applications
Sonic Fire Tech is currently developing solutions for commercial buildings, kitchens, and homes, suitable for both new constructions and retrofits. Additionally, the company is exploring an exterior system to protect homes in wildfire-prone areas, though progress has been slower due to the need for specialized testing facilities.
By offering faster suppression and minimal restoration needs, Sonic Fire Tech aims to redefine fire safety, potentially making water and chemical damage a thing of the past.
via TechCrunch