Mexican Student Wins Gold for Sound-Based Fire Extinguisher at Indonesia Science Fair

Mexican student Ángela Karime wins gold in Indonesia with Vortex Tech, an experimental fire extinguisher using low-frequency sound waves.

By News National Editorial Team

Altamira, Mexico | November 6, 2026

What began as a simple experiment to extinguish a candle using sound has developed into an award-winning scientific innovation. Ángela Karime Venegas Hernández, a student from CETis 78 in Altamira, Tamaulipas, Mexico, has won a gold medal at the International Science and Invention Fair (ISIF) 2026 in Indonesia for developing an experimental fire-extinguishing device called Vortex Tech.

Unlike conventional fire extinguishers that use water, foam or chemical agents, her prototype uses low-frequency sound waves to suppress small flames.

The project attracted international attention after competing against approximately 110 projects representing 25 countries at the science competition held in Indonesia from October 14 to 16, 2026.

An Idea Inspired by Sonic Technology

The idea reportedly began when Venegas watched a video showing a large sonic cannon developed through research associated with the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

The technology demonstrated how sound-driven air movement could help extinguish flames. Inspired by the concept, she decided to investigate whether a smaller and more practical device could achieve a similar result.

With guidance from her uncle and project adviser, José Arturo Hernández Muñoz, she spent approximately one year developing the invention.

The development process involved five prototypes and more than 100 experimental tests before the project reached its reported final design.

How Does Vortex Tech Work?

The Vortex Tech prototype combines a 12-volt battery, a frequency generator, an amplifier, a speaker and a modified bucket-like structure that directs the sound towards a flame.

The system produces low-frequency sound at approximately 30 hertz.

These sound waves create disturbances in the surrounding air, generating small rotating structures known as vortex rings. When directed towards a flame, the moving air disrupts the conditions that sustain combustion, helping to extinguish the fire.

The technology is based on the physical interaction between sound waves, airflow and flames rather than the application of conventional extinguishing substances.

More Than 100 Tests Conducted

According to reports featuring the student's explanation, the prototype underwent more than 100 tests involving different types of small, controlled fires.

The reported experiments included flames involving wood, flammable liquids, cooking oil and electronic equipment.

In the tests described, the device reportedly extinguished flames within approximately five to eight seconds.

One potential advantage of the concept is that it does not spray water or chemical extinguishing agents directly onto the affected area. This could make acoustic fire suppression worth exploring in environments where liquid or chemical residue may damage sensitive equipment.

However, these are reported experimental results and should not be interpreted as proof that the technology can safely extinguish all types of fires.

International Recognition for a Student Innovation

Venegas presented Vortex Tech at the International Science and Invention Fair 2026 in Indonesia, where she received a gold medal in recognition of the project.

She also received the IYSA Semi Grand Award, which provided an opportunity to participate in another science competition, the Indonesia International Applied Science Project Olympiad (I2ASPO) 2026.

Her achievement followed earlier participation and recognition in regional and national science competitions in Mexico.

The project was developed with the support of her uncle and adviser, José Arturo Hernández Muñoz, who helped guide the technical development and testing process.

Can Sound Replace Traditional Fire Extinguishers?

Despite its promising experimental results, Vortex Tech remains a prototype rather than a certified commercial fire extinguisher.

Further independent testing is necessary to determine its effectiveness against different fire categories, particularly larger fires and situations involving rapidly spreading flames.

Researchers would also need to assess its operating range, reliability, sound intensity, safety requirements and performance in real-world environments.

Until the technology receives appropriate testing and certification, conventional fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and established fire-safety procedures remain essential.

News National Perspective

The achievement of Ángela Karime Venegas Hernández highlights the role of curiosity, experimentation and scientific mentorship in encouraging young innovators.

Her project explores an alternative approach to fire suppression by using sound and controlled airflow instead of conventional extinguishing agents.

Although the technology requires further development before practical widespread use, its international recognition demonstrates how student research can contribute new ideas to engineering and environmental technology.

A simple question about extinguishing a candle has grown into an international science achievement, showing how curiosity can become the starting point for innovation.

Sources and references

1. El País – Mexican student wins gold with acoustic fire extinguisher.

2. UnoTV – Officially reported competition award and IYSA recognition.

3. N+ Mexico – Technical explanation and prototype testing.

4. Kompas – International competition coverage.

5. The Times of India – Vortex Tech and student background.