Stratistics MRC에 따르면 세계의 폴리우레탄 폼 시장은 2025년 582억 달러를 차지하며, 예측 기간 동안 CAGR은 8.5%로 성장하여 2032년에는 1,031억 달러에 이를 전망입니다.
폴리우레탄 폼은 석유 제품 유래의 폴리올과 디이소시아네이트를 반응시켜 만들어지는 범용성이 높고, 경량으로 내구성이 있는 소재입니다. 폴리우레탄 폼에는 주로 연질과 경질의 2유형이 있습니다. 경질 폼은 뛰어난 내열성에 의해 건물이나 가전제품의 단열재로서 널리 사용되고 있습니다.에너지 효율, 쾌적성, 구조 강도로 알려진 폴리우레탄 폼은 차음성이나 내충격성도 갖추고 있습니다.
국제자동차공업회에 따르면 2020년 승용차의 세계 매출은 7,110억 달러였습니다.
건설 업계 수요 증가
폴리우레탄 폼 시장을 견인하고 있는 것은 건설 업계 수요 증가입니다. 이와 같은 건설 프로젝트의 급증은 시장의 성장을 가속해, 기술 혁신과 생산을 촉진합니다. 또한, 환경 친화적으로 에너지 절약에 이르는 규제가, 근대 건축에 있어서의 폴리우레탄 폼의 채용을 한층 더 밀어주고 있습니다.
불안정한 원료 가격
불안정한 원료 가격은 불확실성을 창출하고 생산 비용을 증가시켜 폴리우레탄 폼 시장에 파괴적인 영향을 미칩니다. 이 불안정성은 공급망을 혼란스럽게 만들고 제조업체가 효과적인 계획을 세우고 예산을 짜는 것을 어렵게 만듭니다. 빈번한 가격 변동은 이익률 저하, 제품 가격 상승, 경쟁력 저하로 이어집니다. 게다가 이 분야에 대한 투자와 혁신의 의욕을 갖고 시장의 성장을 둔화시켜 업계의 장기적인 안정을 방해합니다.
가구 및 침구에서의 사용 증가
가구 및 침구에서 폴리우레탄 폼의 사용이 증가함에 따라 편안함, 내구성 및 다용도성으로 인해 시장의 현저한 성장을 가속하고 있습니다. 고품질의 인체 공학적 제품에 대한 소비자 수요 증가가 매트리스, 소파, 쿠션에 폴리 우레탄 폼을 채용하는 제조 업체를 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 가볍고 비용 효율적이기 때문에 매력이 더욱 높아지고 있습니다. 게다가 메모리 폼과 같은 폼 기술의 혁신은 그 용도를 확대하고, 주택 및 상업 분야에서의 지위를 강화하고, 세계의 폴리우레탄 폼 시장에 긍정적으로 기여하고 있습니다.
폐기 및 재활용 과제
폐기 및 재활용 과제는 환경 문제에 대한 우려와 규제 압력 증가로 인해 시장의 큰 방해가 되었습니다. 발포 스티롤의 분해 및 재가공이 어려워 폐기물의 축적이 증가하고 비용이 상승하며 지속 가능한 관행이 제한됩니다. 그 결과 소비자의 신뢰와 수요가 저하됩니다. 게다가 재활용 인프라가 충분하지 않아 기술 혁신과 환경 친화적인 대체품의 채택이 지연되고 시장 성장과 수익성이 제한됩니다. 그 결과 이러한 과제는 제조업체와 투자자에게 장벽이 됩니다.
COVID-19의 영향
COVID-19의 대유행은 공급 체인 중단, 산업 활동 저하, 자동차 및 건설 부문 수요 감소로 인해 폴리우레탄 폼 시장에 큰 혼란을 가져왔습니다. 그러나 의료용 및 포장용 양식 수요가 손실을 부분적으로 상쇄했습니다.
경질 폼 부문이 예측 기간 중 최대가 될 전망
경질 폼 분야는 뛰어난 단열 특성, 에너지 효율, 건축 및 냉동 산업에서의 광범위한 사용으로 예측 기간 동안 최대 시장 점유율을 차지할 것으로 예측됩니다. 그린 빌딩, 콜드체인 물류 및 HVAC 시스템의 경질 폴리우레탄 폼의 용도는 계속해서 확대되고 있습니다.
예측 기간 동안 CAGR이 가장 높을 것으로 예상되는 것은 포장 분야
전자상거래와 물류가 전 세계적으로 성장함에 따라 보호적이고 비용 효율적인 패키징 솔루션에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있습니다. 또한, 특주의 형상이나 사이즈에 적응할 수 있기 때문에 다양한 분야에서 지지되고 있습니다.
예측 기간 동안 아시아태평양은 건설, 자동차, 가구 분야 수요 증가로 최대 시장 점유율을 차지할 것으로 예측됩니다. 중국과 인도와 같은 국가는 인프라와 제조 활동의 확대로 주요 공헌국이 되고 있습니다.
예측 기간 동안 북미가 가장 높은 CAGR을 나타낼 것으로 예측됩니다. 이는 뛰어난 단열 특성이 에너지 효율 이니셔티브를 지원하고 그린 빌딩 기준에 부합하기 때문입니다. 뿐만 아니라, 연질 폼과 경질 폼의 적용으로 진행 중인 기술 혁신이 제품의 범용성과 지속가능성을 높여주고 있습니다.
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Polyurethane Foam Market is accounted for $58.2 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $103.1 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period. Polyurethane foam is a versatile, lightweight, and durable material made by reacting polyols and diisocyanates, both derived from petroleum products. It exists in two main forms: flexible and rigid. Flexible polyurethane foam is commonly used in furniture, mattresses, and automotive seating for cushioning, while rigid foam is widely used for insulation in buildings and appliances due to its excellent thermal resistance. Known for its energy efficiency, comfort, and structural strength, polyurethane foam also offers sound insulation and impact resistance. Its adaptability makes it valuable across various industries, contributing significantly to modern manufacturing, construction, and everyday consumer products.
According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, global sales of passenger vehicles were US$711 billion in 2020.
Growing Demand from Construction Industry
The growing demand from the construction industry is absolutely driving the polyurethane foam market. As construction activities expand globally, especially in residential and commercial sectors, the need for effective insulation materials increases. Polyurethane foam, known for its superior thermal insulation, energy efficiency, and durability, is widely used in roofing, walls, and flooring. This surge in construction projects enhances market growth, encouraging innovation and production. Additionally, eco-friendly and energy-saving regulations further fuel the adoption of polyurethane foam in modern construction.
Volatile Raw Material Prices
Volatile raw material prices destructively impact the polyurethane foam market by creating uncertainty and increasing production costs. This instability disrupts supply chains, making it difficult for manufacturers to plan and budget effectively. Frequent price fluctuations can lead to reduced profit margins, higher product prices, and loss of competitiveness. Additionally, it discourages investment and innovation in the sector, slowing market growth and hindering long-term industry stability.
Increasing Use in Furniture and Bedding
The increasing use of polyurethane foam in furniture and bedding is driving significant market growth due to its comfort, durability, and versatility. Rising consumer demand for high-quality, ergonomic products has pushed manufacturers to adopt polyurethane foam for mattresses, sofas, and cushions. Its lightweight and cost-effective nature further enhance its appeal. Additionally, innovations in foam technology, such as memory foam, are expanding its applications, strengthening its position in residential and commercial segments and contributing positively to the global polyurethane foam market.
Disposal and Recycling Challenges
Disposal and recycling challenges significantly hinder the market by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Difficulties in breaking down and reprocessing foam lead to high waste accumulation, raising costs and limiting sustainable practices. This results in reduced consumer trust and demand. Additionally, inadequate recycling infrastructure slows innovation and adoption of eco-friendly alternatives, restricting market growth and profitability. Consequently, these challenges create barriers for manufacturers and investors.
Covid-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the polyurethane foam market due to supply chain interruptions, reduced industrial activity, and declining demand in automotive and construction sectors. Lockdowns and labor shortages delayed production, while limited transportation impacted raw material availability. However, demand for foam in medical and packaging applications partially offset losses. As economies recover, the market is gradually rebounding with increased emphasis on sustainable and healthcare-related polyurethane foam solutions.
The rigid foam segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The rigid foam segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period, due to its superior insulation properties, energy efficiency, and widespread use in construction and refrigeration industries. As global emphasis on sustainable building solutions grows, rigid polyurethane foams are increasingly favored for their thermal performance and durability. Their application in green buildings, cold chain logistics, and HVAC systems continues to expand. This rising demand positions rigid foams as a key growth engine, fostering innovation and boosting market momentum across multiple sectors.
The packaging segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the packaging segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate, as e-commerce and logistics grow globally, there is an increased demand for protective and cost-effective packaging solutions. Polyurethane foam is perfect for protecting goods while in transportation since it provides superior insulation and stress absorption. Furthermore, a variety of sectors are supported by its adaptability to bespoke shapes and sizes. Market dynamics are positively impacted by this expanding use, which encourages innovation and higher demand across industries.
During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share due to rising demand in construction, automotive, and furniture sectors. Its versatility, energy efficiency, and lightweight properties make it ideal for insulation and cushioning, supporting sustainability goals. Countries like China and India are key contributors due to expanding infrastructure and manufacturing activities. This market trend fosters economic development, technological innovation, and employment opportunities, creating a positive and transformative regional impact.
Over the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR, owing to its excellent insulation properties support energy efficiency initiatives, aligning with green building standards. Increased use in lightweight automotive components enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Additionally, ongoing innovation in flexible and rigid foam applications boosts product versatility and sustainability. These trends collectively position polyurethane foam as a key contributor to economic growth and environmental progress across the region.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players profiled in the Polyurethane Foam Market include BASF SE, Huntsman Corporation, Dow Inc., Covestro AG, Saint-Gobain, Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd., Recticel NV/SA, Rogers Corporation, Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd., Trelleborg AB, Lanxess AG, DuPont, Inoac Corporation, Armacell International S.A., UFP Technologies, Inc., Future Foam, Inc., FXI Inc., Woodbridge Foam Corporation, Foamcraft, Inc. and Neveon Holding GmbH.
In April 2025, BASF announced its first Canadian Master Research Agreement (MRA) with the University of Toronto, marking a significant milestone in the company's efforts to expand its research collaborations in North America. This partnership aims to streamline innovation projects and foster collaboration between BASF researchers and Canadian academics.
In October 2024, BASF made a strategic partnership with Aspen Aerogels to enhance its aerogel product offerings and expand its market reach. This partnership is set to drive innovation in aerogel technologies, particularly in high-performance insulation materials.
In July 2024, BASF launched Haptex 4.0, an innovative polyurethane solution for the production of synthetic leather that is 100% recyclable. Synthetic leather made with Haptex 4.0 and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric can be recycled together using an innovative formulation and recycling technical pathway without the need of layer peel-off process.