EUMEPS has just published Technical Information: "PV Systems on EPS Flat Roofs Reduced Fire Spread Through the Installation of Cement-Bonded Particleboard underneath the Roof Membrane".
Summary of Results
- The cement-bonded particleboard installed beneath the roof membrane prevents fire from penetrating into the underlying flat roof structure. Fire spread above the cement-bonded particleboard was minimal, confined to the base area of a single PV module.
- The cement-bonded particleboard effectively prevents fire from passing through the roof into the building.
- The fire self-extinguished in a very short time.
- These observations collectively demonstrate that even PV system fires that remain undetected for extended periods do not pose an immediate full-fire hazard for an EPS-insulated flat roof in conjunction with a PVC membrane.
PV systems can be safely installed on flat roofs with EPS insulation, whether on massive flat roof constructions or industrial lightweight roofs. Thus, the efficient and safe expansion of renewable energy use on EPS flat roofs does not present an increased risk. EPS allows for safe, efficient, and cost-effective new construction as well as modernisation.
The fire protection solution involving a cement-bonded particleboard installed beneath the roof membrane and above the thermal insulation can be applied to all types of insulation materials. This cross-material solution can also largely eliminate walkability issues with soft insulation materials caused by inspection and maintenance work on PV systems on flat roofs.
Download the document to read the full results.