POLYURETHANE FOAM

While you may have never heard of polyurethane foam, you have definitely experienced its benefits. Whether from the comfort of your bed mattress or the inserts protecting your online purchases, you come in contact with polyurethane foam more often than you think. In fact, you are likely sitting on polyurethane foam right now; it's found in most couches and cushioned chairs. 

Polyurethane foam is a versatile, multipurpose cellular structure that provides both durability and comfort. Polyurethane foam has many applications in the marketplace and is a go-to component in everything from home furnishings to packaging inserts. With over 1.5 billion pounds of foam produced and used yearly in America alone, polyurethane foam is an increasingly popular choice among designers that meets a swath of needs across industries. 

How is polyurethane foam made?

Polyurethane foam is a polymer produced from mixing two chemicals: polyols and diisocyanates. 

Polyols and diisocyanates are molecules that, when combined, produce a strong reaction resulting in a long chain molecule that creates what we know as polyurethane foam. Depending on the intended application of the foam, different mixtures can be used to attain different densities. Paint can also be mixed to give the foam a very even color. Through the use of molds and inserts, the polyurethane foam takes the shape of the products you see everyday, like the armrest of your desk chair.

Why polyurethane foam? 

Polyurethane foam continues to be a preferred material of many manufacturers, offering many uses and benefits.

• Versatile: With its ability to vary in density, firmness, and quality, polyurethane foam easily meets manufacturers' needs across a range of industries. Because of its incredible cushioning and comfort, polyurethane foam is the preferred material in home furnishings such as bedding, furniture, or carpet underlay. It is also highly effective and popular for packaging inserts, car and machinery interiors, and filtration. 
• Customizable: Polyurethane foam can change shape, size, flexibility, and firmness through different production processes. Changes to its form don't require changes to its chemical composition, making it easily customizable to meet the needs of each customer. Modifications are possible throughout the product development process to ensure customers receive the perfect density and shape to meet their needs. 
• Non-toxic: Polyurethane foam is environmentally-friendly and hypoallergenic, providing the customer with a sustainable and long-lasting product. With its prevalence in homes, it is comforting to know that it is a safe, non-toxic choice. 
• Durable: Due to its strength and flexibility, polyurethane foam offers permanence. It will never lose its intended shape, regardless of applied force; it will always return to its original shape and size. 

At Intex, we are proud to provide high-quality polyurethane foam to our customers across the consumer and commercial sectors. With years of experience and quality customer service, we will provide sustainable, durable solutions for your next project.