PUvaahto

PUvaahto, or polyurethane foam, is a polymer foam used mainly for insulation, sealing, and filling in construction and industrial applications. It is produced by the reaction of polyols with di- or polyisocyanates, often with blowing agents, catalysts, and additives that create a cellular structure and cure into a light, yet strong material.

There are two main forms. One-component polyurethane foam (OCF) expands in place when exposed to moisture and is typically dispensed from a cartridge for gap filling and weather sealing. Two-component systems, including spray polyurethane foams (SPF), mix a polyol and an isocyanate component in situ to form a dense, highly insulating layer. The resulting foam can be rigid or flexible, with varying densities and mechanical properties.

Key properties of PUvaahto include low density, good thermal insulation, sound dampening, and strong adhesion to many substrates. Rigid foams provide high thermal resistance for building envelopes, while flexible foams are used in cushioning and upholstery. The foam’s performance depends on formulation, curing conditions, and whether the blowing agent remains in the final product.

Applications are broad but common in construction (thermal insulation, air sealing around pipes, doors and windows), automotive interiors, packaging, and consumer products. Safety considerations center on exposure to isocyanates during handling and curing, requiring proper ventilation and personal protective equipment. Environmental aspects involve limited recyclability of rigid foams and the use of bio-based polyols or recycled content as ongoing areas of development.