Sonic Fire Tech secures $15M to suppress flames with sound waves

The capital infusion, which follows a $3.5 million seed round last October, will finance staff expansion and the rigorous testing required to secure National Fire Protection Association approval. CEO Geoff Bruder anticipates an accelerated certification timeline, noting that the system’s lack of residual cleanup simplifies the verification process. Unlike conventional sprinklers, the technology uses inaudible 20 Hz sound waves to bombard flames, a method that could prevent the extensive restoration costs often faced by commercial kitchens, where 75% of businesses fail to reopen after a fire.

Beyond standard structure protection, the startup is exploring applications for lithium-ion battery safety. While the system does not extinguish battery fires, Bruder reports it effectively contains them, preventing cell-to-cell spread by protecting the outer casing. The company is currently engaged in discussions with insurance providers regarding premium discounts, which could prove critical for widespread adoption. With plans to target commercial interiors and wildfire-prone residential exteriors, the team is positioning its solution as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to the water-based systems currently mandated in 500 jurisdictions.