Polyurethane foam (PU foam) is a multifunctional cellular polymer used in the furniture, construction, automotive, refrigeration, and other industries.
Its main advantages are its thermal insulation properties, durability, lightness, and hygiene. In this article, we will examine what PU foam is, what it consists of, what properties it has, what types exist, and where it is used—taking into account the needs of business, manufacturing, and wholesale procurement.
It helps save on energy, adds comfort, and yet does not “give up” for years. Interest in it grows every year. And this is not surprising: for the production of furniture, construction, or transport, PU foam is a real find.
What is polyurethane foam?
In fact, polyurethane foam is the same foam rubber familiar to everyone. Yes, you know what foam rubber is—the kind in dishwashing sponges, children’s toys, sofas, mattresses, armchairs, and inside other upholstered furniture—in short, everywhere.
An interesting nuance: the production of the material is conventionally divided into two main areas. The manufacturing of small blocks is, in fact, foam rubber. But the creation of large slabs is PU foam itself, which is used in construction, industry, or transport. That is, depending on the form and density, the material can perform completely different functions under different conditions.
Main properties of PU foam
Thermal insulation.
Waterproofing. Another important property is the ability of PU foam to resist moisture. Water absorption is directly affected by density and composition. On average, the material absorbs no more than 1–3% of moisture per day. If even this is not enough, in some cases, manufacturers add castor oil or special hydrophobic agents to the formula. This can reduce water absorption by 4 times. Therefore, if you need to protect a structure from moisture, PU foam with such an “upgrade” will be just right.
Strength. Despite being very light, this filler has quite good strength. The secret is in its chemical composition. It contains only 10–15% solid polymers—these are the very walls between the cells that hold the entire structure together. The remaining 85–90% are inert gases that make the material super light. And it is thanks to this composition that PU foam does not load the structure that needs insulation, but at the same time does not fall apart and holds its shape well.
Durability. In this field, polyurethane foam is a real champion. In the absence of direct sunlight and at temperatures below 70% humidity, it “lives” for more than 25 years. An interesting story—back in the 60s in the USSR, PU foam was used to insulate mines. And recently, one of these “old” samples was taken for analysis—it turned out that it had practically not lost its characteristics over the entire period. Therefore, there can be no doubt about its quality.
Chemical resistance. PU foam perfectly withstands contact with chemicals that damage other materials. Even when surrounded by aggressive vapors, the material does not disintegrate or lose its shape. That is why it is suitable for manufacturing.
Biological resistance. And PU foam is not afraid of fungi, mold, or rot, which other materials fear. And that’s not all—rodents and pests simply ignore it because the material is inedible for them. Therefore, where there is a risk of moisture or all sorts of “uninvited guests” in the form of mice, PU foam is a completely safe and reliable option for many years, you don’t have to worry about it.
Types of polyurethane foam
Rigid PU foam — used in construction for insulating walls, roofs, and pipes. It is hard, holds its shape, retains heat well, has good density, and high load-bearing capacity.
Flexible PU foam — the very foam rubber for furniture (armchairs, sofas) as a filler. Soft, flexible, easily restores its shape.
Integral skin polyurethane — hard on the outside and soft on the inside. Often used in the production of steering wheels, armrests, etc.
Specialized types:
- PIR — a special variation created for surface thermal insulation.
- Fire-resistant PU foams — this is about safety: a material with added fire retardants.
- Hypoallergenic — for medical and children’s products.
Polyurethane foam marking: how to understand it
- ST — standard, basic type. Universal, often used for thermal insulation.
- EL — increased rigidity and high density. Holds its shape well.
- HL — very rigid. Maximum density level. For high loads.
- HS — softer. Low density indicators. Used where comfort is needed (filler in soft elements—headrests, armrests).
- HR — more elastic, latex-like. Ideal as a filler for mattresses.
- VE (LR) — viscoelastic or “memory.” It takes the shape of the body and then slowly returns to its original form. It is popular as a filler in premium pillows due to these characteristics.
Where polyurethane foam is used
- In furniture
- In thermal and hydro insulation (construction)
- In automobiles, appliances, and other industries
Advantages and disadvantages of polyurethane foam
Advantages:
- High thermal insulation
- Energy efficiency
- Resistance to moisture and mold
- Long service life
- Environmental safety (for certified types)
Disadvantages:
- Sensitivity to ultraviolet light—needs protection from the sun
- Flammability (in common types without fire retardants)
- Softness—not suitable by its properties for structures requiring hardness and rigidity.
How to choose quality PU foam
- Density. Strength and durability depend on it. The higher the density, the better it holds its shape.
- Marking. Each type is for its own task. One for seats, another for walls.
- Presence of certificates. This guarantees the absence of harmful impurities and stable properties.
Wholesale supplies and cooperation: solutions for business from HighFoam
We work not only with standard orders. If your project is non-standard—for example, you need to design a furniture area in a showroom, make a safe surface for a gym, or insulate equipment in a production facility—we are ready to take on the task “turnkey.” We will consider any nuances—functionality, design, specific technical requirements, and budget.
Need a quote for your project or a consultation with our specialists? Leave a request—we’ll help you find the best solution!
Contacts here:
Distribution and sale of polyurethane foam:
Kyiv, 6 Stetsenko St.,
office 506
+38 (044) 200 25 69
office@acat.com.ua
acat.com.ua