Polyurethane foam is a synthetic material with plenty of applications—you can find it in everything from household items to machinery. This plastic is flexible, and manufacturers often incorporate it in items intended for comfort and relaxation. Also, its durability makes it suitable for industrial purposes, like creating tires and insulation. Here are some popular applications for this material.
As foam seating or bedding
You can mold polyurethane foam into parts with various densities, firmness, and levels of durability. Manufacturers often price these higher-density items higher since they sell these by the sheet or quarter-inch.
For short-term products like baby mattresses, soft, temporary types are suitable. Meanwhile, manufacturers reserve the higher-end, luxurious types of foam for bay window cushions and fabric car seats.
As a thermal insulator
One of the uses for low-density rigid polyurethane is as a thermal insulator. Lining a building’s walls with this type of foam can bring down the heating and cooling bills, keep the heat out in the summer, and retain warmth in the winter. You can also use polyurethane as a spray coating for the roof, which also contributes to insulation.
When you bring down your electricity use, you can decrease your negative impact on the environment and cut your company’s carbon emissions. What’s more, polyurethane foam typically has a long life span; it can last more than five decades and needs no maintenance. This material is the perfect choice for people who are building new homes.
As an elastomer
A subtype of polyurethane foam also works well as an elastomer. You can find this polymer in several products like gaskets, gel pads, and paint rollers. Elastomers are both stretchable and resilient. For example, elastomer gel pads can contort to the weight or shape of the item put on top of it while maintaining its strength and composition.
As footwear, cords, or straps
Athletic shoes depend on the unique traits of polyurethane foam to provide a comfortable base for the foot. In particular, the midsole has elastic properties that let it bend or stretch through the foot’s natural motion. Polyurethane used for shoes will not melt in the wash and are highly resistant to heat. You can use it for several years, and it returns to its original form even after repeated use.
Since it is strong and elastic, you can also use polyurethane on watch straps and bungee cords. It can hold up items that are several times its weight while providing comfort and flexibility.
As a protective coating
Finally, polyurethane foam coatings increase the lifespan and improve the overall look of an item. You can use it as a protective layer for wooden floors, helping it become resistant to water-rot. What’s more, this item gives a protective varnish to automobiles, helping you defend your car against scratches, dents, and weather damage.
Conclusion: Polyurethane is an all-around building material with plenty of industrial applications.
Since this material is versatile and an insulator, it offers various solutions to energy conservation and sustainability. With the increased demand for this product comes more research into making it more practical and cost-effective. We can only look forward to more environmentally-friendly, affordable types of polyurethane in the future.
Keep your family safe and comfortable year-round with a polyurethane foam layer for your roof. Get the American Foam Experts for the job—we are the leading spray polyurethane foam roofer in Walnut Creek, CA. Get a free quote and let us work on lowering your energy costs today!