All about polyurethane foam
PU stands for polyurethane or polyether. This raw material is often used to make polyether foam, also known as PU foam. This material is very soft and has an open cell structure. The foam is used for many indoor applications and is available in various hardnesses and densities. On this page, we would like to tell you more about it.
On this page:
What is polyurethane foam?
Polyurethane is an umbrella term for various polymers that can be applied in many ways, but what is polyurethane and how is it created? The material polyurethane is formed by the polymerization reaction between a soft polyol and a hard isocyanate. It is a very strong, wear-resistant, and highly flexible material. When gas is added during the polymerization process, the polyurethane starts to foam. At that point, polyurethane foam is created.
Which characteristics does polyurethane foam have?
Foam made from polyurethane is called PU foam, polyether foam, or polyurethane foam. This material is very soft and flexible. There are different types of PU foam: hard and soft types. All have an open cell structure, which gives the material good mechanical properties, allowing it to be easily compressed and then return to its original shape.
PU foam is available in various hardnesses and densities. Generally, the higher the density, the more durable and comfortable the foam is. Besides comfort, it can also be used for sound absorption. Furthermore, the material is well-resistant to aging when used indoors. However, a drawback of the material is that it has a shorter lifespan compared to other foams. The estimated lifespan of PU foam is about five to ten years. Exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor use can shorten its lifespan. If you are looking for a foam that lasts longer and can withstand direct sunlight, PVC foam might be a better choice.
PU foam products from EKI
How is it applied?
Since Polyurethane foam is available in various hardnesses and densities, the material can be applied in many different ways. Due to its properties, Polyurethane foam is often used for comfort applications. For example, it is suitable for making mattresses and (seat) cushions. In addition to creating comfort, it is also an excellent material for sound insulation due to its sound-absorbing properties. In this case, sound insulation panels are made from the foam, which can then be used in places such as recording studios. A popular product for sound absorption is the PU pyramid panel.
Beyond comfort and sound absorption, polyurethane foam has other applications. This material is also frequently seen as packaging foam for lightweight components and as back padding for kittens. Additionally, it can serve well as a draft strip for simple seals against dust, noise, and air. It is particularly suitable for joints with significant joint movement because it can be easily compressed. For this application, PU compression tape is also often used. For sealing against water or other liquids, PE foam is a better choice due to its closed cell structure, making it water-resistant.
In which products from EKI is polyurethane foam used?
EKI offers a wide range of different polyurethane foams. With us, you can find products such as PU tape, pyramid foam, PU foam blocks, convoluted foam, PU foam sheets, compression tape, and PU back padding. Our products are available in the colours anthracite and white and come in various hardnesses, densities, and sizes. We cut our large foam blocks into usable formats such as rolls, sheets, blocks, tapes, discs, and rings. Virtually all desired shapes are available. Most shapes can be supplied with single-sided or double-sided adhesive. The pyramid sheets and convoluted foam are only available with single-sided adhesive. Back padding is only supplied non-adhesive.
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Receiving advice on PU foam?
Do you have questions about PU foam or their application for your business? Please let us know using the form below. Our team of specialists will be happy to think along with you.
