Polyurethane foam,
or plastic foam
The defining characteristics of plastic foams are light weight, flexibility and durability. These materials vary in terms of density, cellular structure, softness, elasticity and other technical properties. The right materials are chosen based on the application and the intended purpose and requirements of the end product.
Plastic foam is durable and
suited for many purposes
Polyurethane foams are extremely safe and durable to use. Plastic foams can also be used in multi-layer solutions. The absorption of liquids or dirt can be prevented by coating the material appropriately, or the material can be given an impressive upholstery surface. Fastening the material is easy thanks to an adhesive surface.
Plastic foams are used for a wide variety of applications in industry or construction, including as a sealant, in sound and thermal insulation, and to filter air and liquids. Plastic foams are also suitable for packaging sensitive products, as filler material, for use in the furniture and construction industries, etc.
What is
plastic foam?
Polyurethane foam, most commonly known as plastic foam, is porous, soft and compressing open-celled cellular plastic that returns to its shape. Its main chemical ingredients are polyols and isocyanates. Additionally, several additives are used, including catalysts, stabilizers, colours and fireproofing agents. The propellant is water. Each plastic foam type has its own exact recipe. There are thousands of different kinds of plastic foams: basic, fireproof, viscoelastic, antistatic, highly elastic, grit-extruded, reticulated and impregnated foams as well as other specialty foams. The foaming of the material is a continuous process where a chemical reaction occurs that results in polyurethane.
Benefits of the materials:
Polyether
- Softness and elasticity
- High tear and abrasion resistance
- Good resistance to hydrolysis
- Pleasant comfort properties
- Remains stable in acids and alkalis
- Oil resistance
- Moulding resistance
- Easy to die cut
Polyester
- Regular cellular structure
- Good mechanical properties – High tensile strength
- Better heat resistance
- Better durability against certain organic solvents
- Resistance to UV and light
- Able to be flame-laminated
- Solvent resistance
- Resistance to ageing (except in damp conditions)
- Better in acoustic applications (higher air resistance)
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