Plastic foams is forecast to rise, rigid polyurethane most dominant
U.S. demand for plastic foams is forecast to rise 2.3% annually to 8.8 billion pounds in 2020, valued at $25.2 billion. Growth will decelerate from the rate posted during the 2010-2015 period. The construction sector is anticipated to lead growth prospects, due to additional opportunities for foam insulation products bolstered by increasing construction activity. Rising consumer spending levels will bode well for foams used in household products such as bedding, furniture, and appliances. In the motor vehicle market, advances will slow in tandem with slowing motor vehicle production and by trends favoring smaller, more fuel efficient automobiles that require less foam on a per vehicle basis. These and other trends are presented in Plastic Foams, a new study from The Freedonia Group (freedoniagroup.com), a Cleveland-based industry research firm.
Polyurethane represents the leading resin in the plastic foams market. Rigid polyurethane foam will remain the dominant product type. Demand gains through 2020 will be based on growth in construction activity and by changes in building codes and construction practices calling for more energy efficiency. Rigid polyurethane is one of the most effective materials available for roof and wall insulation, insulated windows and doors, and air barrier sealants. However, polyurethane foam insulation will continue to face competition from fiberglass and polystyrene foam, which are lower cost alternatives. Flexible polyurethane foam will remain in high demand through 2020 based on healthy growth in the bedding and carpet underlay markets, where it is valued for its cushioning properties.