Global polymeric foams to reach 18 mln tons by 2015

Global polymeric foams is forecast to reach 18 mln tons by 2015, as per a report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. Growth in the market is led by the unique benefits offered by cellular materials compared to conventional materials, introduction of new application markets, and growing interest in green building technologies. Polymeric foams are ubiquitous in their application and versatile in function, with high-density cellular plastics finding widespread use in furniture, transportation, and building products while low-density foams are employed in shock absorption, insulation, and rigid packaging. Foams exhibit superior insulating properties, impact-resistant characteristics, buoyancy, and outstanding strength-to-weight ratios, among other attributes. The global economic crisis led to a decline in demand for polymeric foams across most countries during the years 2008 and 2009, as stated by the new market research report. Sluggish demand forced several manufacturers to either close some of the plants or shut down all operations. Majority of the countries are forecast to witness sluggish growth in the imminent future. Growth is favored by the emergence of applications such as foamed PVC for windows/doors, house siding and construction shapes, and cross-linked polyolefin foam in sports and leisure goods. The continuous focus on sustainable, green construction products is likely to fuel growth in the polymeric foams markets. The need to comply with new regulatory specifications and secure certifications is expected to create growth opportunities for manufacturers. Asia Pacific constitutes the largest and fastest growing regional market for Polymeric Foams. The recession resulted in a considerable decline in demand for polyurethane foams across the world, owing to falling consumption in downstream industries and increase in prices of feedstock. Despite the adverse conditions, potential opportunities exist owing to sustained demand for spray polyurethane foam in industrial and residential applications. Asia-Pacific offers vast growth potential for polyurethane foams. Demand for polyolefin foams is driven primarily by increasing the use of cross-linked polyethylene in applications such as sports and leisure goods. Flexible foams are used primarily for cushioning while rigid foams find widespread use in thermal insulation. However, growth would be tempered due to environmental concerns regarding use of PVC. Major players profiled in the report include Abriso N.V., Achilles USA Inc., American Excelsior Company, Armacell LLC, BASF Plastics, Bayer MaterialScience Polyurethanes, British Vita PLC, Carpenter Company, Celotex Limited, Evonik Foams, Inc., Fagerdala World Foams AB, Foamex International Inc., Huntsman Corporation, JSP Corporation, Recticel, Rogers Corporation, Sealed Air Corporation, Sekisui Alveo AG, Tegrant Corporation, The Dow Chemical Company, Tekni-Plex Inc., and The Woodbridge Group.