The classification parameter FIGRA, FIre Growth RAte, was first introduced in 1998 as a way to classify the fire properties of building products for the purpose of the CPD. It predicts burning behavior of a large variety of building products in reference scenarios. These reference scenarios are in their turn related to real life fire scenarios.It is a part of the European harmonized directions under the construction products directive, CPD. Therefore, FIGRA is relevant for products in a very large market.

FIGRA is defined as the growth rate of the burning intensity, HRR, during a test (e.g. SBI).

FIGRA is calculated as the maximum value of the function (heat release rate)/ (elapsed test time).

The unit is W/s .

 In addition, certain threshold values of HRR and the total heat release rate must first be reached before FIGRA is calculated. Threshold values are needed to avoid that very small and early values of HRR are included as this leads to unrealistic FIGRA values.  The detailed definition of FIGRA can be found in EN 13823 (SBI). FIGRA is the main parameter for classification of building products based on the SBI (Single Burning Item) test. SBI evaluates the potential contribution of a surface lining to the development of a fire. It simulates a single burning item in a corner of a room. The test is used for the European classes A1, A2, B, C and D. The classification table is included in a decision taken by the European Commission . It covers construction products under the CPD excluding a few product groups like floorings and so-called linear products, for example cables and pipe insulation.