PIN FRs best solution for PV fire safety

Science review concludes that flame retardants are the most promising approach for photovoltaic panel fire safety, in particular PIN FRs. They are considered less expensive, compatible with preferred PV encapsulation systems (generally using polyolefins or ethylene vinyl acetate), compared to system engineering approaches or to use of inherently less flammable materials. The review explains the interest of phosphorus and nitrogen PIN FRs, considered of lower toxicity. Different FR systems and fire testing methods are presented and a structured framework is presented for fire testing of PV materials and modules. The review notes that there is little published research on FRs in PV encapsulants, impacts on material properties and on transparency. The authors consider that more research is needed on smoke emission, fire testing of PV panels as part of a building structure and PV recycling.

“Advanced Flame Retardant Strategies and Fire Performance Assessment for Safer Photovoltaics in Buildings: A Two-Part Review”, F. Ollagnon et al., Advanced Functional Materials 2026, 36, e09194 https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202509194