The global polyurethane market is estimated as $45 billion in the year 2014 and is growing with CAGR of 6.3% upto 2021.
Polyurethane is available in various forms depending on the composition of isocyanate and polyols. These types include polyurethane flexible foam, polyurethane rigid foam, PU Coating, Adhesive & Sealants, Elastomers, and Binders. With 37% market share flexible foam is the largest market segment of the polyurethane.
Automotive & furniture have been the most promising industry applications of polyurethane covering more than 50% of the total polyurethane market altogether. PU is a versatile material available in various forms such as rigid foam, flexible foam, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and so on. Such wide range enables its multiple applications in automotive and furniture industry.
Automotive industry is undergoing various innovations in terms of design, comfort and engine efficiency. The main benefits of polyurethanes are comfort, safety, weight saving and longevity and design freedom. The various applications of polyurethane in automotives involve cushion foam, carpet, door panels, sound absorption and vibration dampening, steering wheels and airbag covers and window encapsulation.
Key Players
1. BASF AG
2. Bayer AG
3. Air Products
4. The DOW Chemical Company
5. DSM
6. E.I. du Pont de Nemours And Company
7. Evonik Industries AG
8. Huntsman Corporation
9. Mitsui Chemicals Inc.
10. Rectiel SA
11. The Vita Group, UK
12. Woodbridge Foam Corporation
