Demand for Foamed Plastics

The demand for foamed plastics is driven by the desire for (a) weight reduction, (b) improved thermal insulation and (c) lower part costs. The size of the global plastic foam market was estimated in 2002 as 6.8 M tonnes/year (of which the US share was approximately half), growing at 3% a year, with more rapid growth in insulating foam for the construction industry. Because of the obviously low density of foams, consumption expressed in terms of tonnage fails to convey the high volmne of product sold. 

Foams are used in fiuniture (upholstery, mattresses) packaging, refrigeration and insulation panels, storage and shipping tanks, shoe soles and flotation products. Considerable amounts are used in construction to make roofs and cavity wall insulation, and as a low cost substitute for 

The automotive industry uses foam in air conditioning units and seats, and is increasingly attracted to the weight saving and energy absorbing properties of foam in bumpers and interior fascias. Foamed wood filled plastics composites will become popular if quality and homogeneity can be assured. 

Despite the above comments, the Emopean market for flexible foam declined in 2002 for the first time since 1992. 

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