The polymeric flame retardant PolyFR was developed as an "eco-friendly" substitute for more problematic flame retardants, but new research suggests the compound, commonly used in foam plastic building insulation, could be more harmful than anticipated. In a new paper, scientists argue the widespread adoption of PolyFR is premature, and that more research is needed to understand the polymer's exposure risk. "Our paper points out a lack of knowledge along the lifecycle of PolyFR and states that more information is needed before such chemicals are widely used," said study co-author Arlene Blum, research associate in chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley.