PU Foam Formulations Are Key

Polyurethane (PU) foam is created through a chemical reaction between di-isocyanates and polyols, both of which are typically sourced from crude oil. Some polyols can also come from natural oils, making them renewable. When these elements are combined, they react to form foam.

The properties of PU foam formulations can be adjusted by altering the chemicals used, incorporating other materials, or modifying the production process. This versatility opens up many possibilities for creating foam with specific characteristics.

Flexible polyurethane foam (PU foam) is a type of thermosetting plastic widely used in various durable products, such as mattresses, upholstered furniture, and vehicles. For example, nearly 90% of mattresses made across the globe contain PU foam, and over 90% of furniture upholstery is made from it.

PU foam can be made using either a continuous or discontinuous process. In the continuous slab stock production method, the foam forms quickly after mixing the ingredients on a moving conveyor. The foam then solidifies and is cut into blocks, usually between 15 and 120 meters in length, before being cured and prepared for further use. This process is ideal for large-scale production.