Commercial Upholstery Foam: Planes, Trains and Automobiles

The commercial upholstery market is big business, and foam contributes a huge part to the sector's success. From the aviation industry to other modes of public transport such as buses and trains, there is enormous demand for foam in a commercial capacity. With the polyurethane foam market projected to reach $79 billion by 2023, big growth and change were set to reshape the way commercial organisations use foam.

Foam in public transport seating

The commercial travel industry relies almost wholly on supplies of Severe – or very firm – foam, which is best suited to seating that endures constant use. Longer-lasting and hard-wearing, its high density provides durable comfort for passengers on public transport. The demand for foam in the commercial sector is, however, also driven by applications beyond passenger seating.

Beyond seating: headrests, filters and insulation

Polyurethane foam is also used in the transport industry for headrests, trimming, air-conditioning filters and acoustic insulation, and these foams must undergo specific testing to comply with both regulatory and emissions standards. As attitudes towards emissions and our global footprint change, it is likely that the types and standards of foam used in these applications will gradually face different requirements, and will need new methods of testing and development to meet updated environmental and usage standards.

Foam in future car production

It is also interesting to reflect on how foam is set to be used in future car production. Flexible foams are already common in the automotive sector, helping manufacturers solve issues of fuel efficiency, durability, weight and vibration. Following news that car manufacturer Subaru intends to take a greater interest in specialist waterproof upholstery, we are beginning to see how customer expectations now influence the materials organisations choose, right from fabric to foam inserts.

With this in mind, we can expect the sector to put more funds into further research and development of foam materials. As higher customer expectations combine with environmental concerns, Subaru's changes are just the latest example of change driven by both of these factors. In fact, Subaru have taken a first step towards better environmental practices by ensuring their new upholstery contains no polyvinyl chloride, phthalate or chlorine, and does contain 25% recycled material.

Foam in aviation and freight

At eFoam, we supply a range of commercial customers with various types of foam, which places us at the forefront of industry change. There has been a significant cultural shift in the aviation sector, particularly in commercial air travel and airfreight in the form of shipping containers. Following the tragic events of 9/11, most airlines now use explosive-proof containers that are heavy – so additional components such as the foam inserts we supply need to be lighter in weight, without compromising on quality or function.

Without doubt, as research and innovation into foam development continues, we are sure to see further change come our way.

Frequently asked questions

What type of foam is used in commercial transport seating?

The commercial travel industry relies heavily on Severe, or very firm, foam. Its high density makes it long-lasting and hard-wearing, providing durable comfort for seating that endures constant use.

Where is foam used in transport besides seating?

Polyurethane foam is also used for headrests, trimming, air-conditioning filters and acoustic insulation. These foams must undergo specific testing to comply with regulatory and emissions standards.

Why does aviation need lightweight foam?

Since many airlines now use heavy, explosive-proof freight containers, additional components such as foam inserts need to be as light as possible without compromising on quality or function.