Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-23 Origin: Site
PVC foam, also known as expanded PVC, foamed PVC, or rigid polyvinyl chloride foam, is rapidly gaining popularity as a top choice of advanced lightweight core material in industries worldwide. Whether you are in marine, wind energy, transportation, aerospace, construction, packaging, or sports equipment manufacturing, PVC foam offers an unrivaled combination of strength, durability, processability, and cost-effectiveness.
As a leading global manufacturer and supplier—with over 15 years of expertise and DNV GL-certified production—UNION COMPOSITES is dedicated to delivering high-quality PVC foam solutions tailored to the needs of our partners around the world.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what PVC foam is, its essential features, why it is increasingly favored across industries, and how UNION COMPOSITES ensures you get the best value and performance for your projects.
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PVC FOAM |
Pure PVC Powder |
PVC foam is a rigid, closed-cell polymer foam made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. Through advanced foaming technology—using additives, steam, stabilizers, heat, and pressure—a honeycomb-like closed-cell structure is formed (closed-cell rate >95%). This unique microstructure is the foundation of PVC foam’s remarkable properties: lightweight, high strength, insulation, chemical resistance, and more.
The industrial production of PVC is primarily achieved through polymerization of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) [1].
Densities:
PVC foam can be produced in a wide range of densities—from 45 kg/m3 to 300 kg/m3—accommodating everything from flexible cushioning to ultra-rigid, structural core applications. UNION COMPOSITES offers all standard grades (P45, P60, P80, P100, P130, P200, P250, P300) and supports full customization to meet your exact requirements. The number after "P" indicates the material's density in kg/m3. Explore our full product range for customized solutions.
PVC foam drastically reduces the overall weight of products compared to traditional materials like wood, metal, or solid PVC. Its high strength-to-weight ratio enables easier handling, transportation, and installation—without compromising on structural integrity.
With a thermal conductivity as low as 0.035–0.055 W/m·K, PVC foam is an ideal insulation material. It effectively minimizes heat transfer, making it the preferred choice for cold chain logistics, refrigerated trucks, LNG carriers, and building insulation systems.
The closed-cell microstructure means water absorption is less than 1.5% (ASTM D2842), preventing water ingress, mold, and rot. This makes PVC foam especially suitable for marine environments, shipbuilding, offshore platforms, and all kinds of water sports equipment.
PVC foam demonstrates excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, oils, and many other chemicals. It maintains its strength and performance even in harsh chemical plants, marine, and industrial environments.
Our PVC foam meets stringent international fire safety standards (UL94 V-0, TŰV SŰD-certified). It is self-extinguishing once removed from fire, making it the material of choice for applications in rail transit, aviation, and other areas where fire protection is critical.
PVC foam boards and sheets can be cut, drilled, glued, painted, grooved, punched, and thermoformed using standard tools. UNION COMPOSITES offers a variety of surface treatments—including plain, punched, grooved, scrim, and custom finishes—to suit a wide range of application needs.
PVC foam is highly resistant to UV radiation, temperature extremes (operating from -50°C to +80°C), and outdoor weathering, retaining its mechanical properties and appearance for years.
PVC foam is a recyclable material, free from hazardous substances like formaldehyde. Its long lifespan and ability to be reused or recycled contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Compared to PE foam, PVC foam offers superior fire safety and eco-friendliness.
PVC foam is often referred to as “synthetic wood” due to its workability and aesthetic flexibility, but unlike wood, it won’t rot, warp, or attract termites. Its stable, waterproof, and non-deformable nature makes it ideal for long-term use in humid or outdoor environments, surpassing the limitations of plywood, MDF, and even solid PVC.
| Property | PVC Foam Board | Plywood | MDF | Solid Wood | Standard PVC Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (kg/m3) | 45-300 (Adjustable) | 500-700 | 600-800 | 400-1200 | 1380 |
| Water Absorption (24h) | <1% (ASTM D570) | 12-20% | 15-25% | 10-30% | 0.1% |
| Service Life (Outdoor) | 20+ years | 5-8 years | 3-5 years | 10-15 years | 15-20 years |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | 0.035-0.055 | 0.13 | 0.15 | 0.12-0.18 | 0.16 |
| Maintenance Requirements | None | Annual sealing | Replace if wet | Staining/sealing | Occasional cleaning |
| Environmental Impact | Recyclable (100%) | Formaldehyde emissions | High VOC release | Sustainable if FSC-certified | Non-biodegradable |
| Key Advantage | Waterproof structural core | High strength-to-weight | Low-cost machining | Aesthetic appeal | Chemical resistance |
While the initial investment in PVC foam may be slightly higher than some traditional materials, its exceptional durability, resistance to wear, and low maintenance (no need for regular painting, sealing, or repairs) result in substantial cost savings over the product’s lifecycle.
PVC foam’s versatility has fueled its widespread adoption across global industries:
· Construction & Building
Used as thermal and sound insulation boards, shock-absorbing panels, exterior wall insulation, roof insulation, decorative cladding, and sandwich cores. PVC foam increases building energy efficiency, comfort, and longevity.
· Packaging & Protection
Its cushioning and shock-absorbing properties make it ideal for protective packaging of electronics, precision instruments, medical devices, and fragile items.
Reduces weight in automotive interiors, RV panels, truck refrigeration units, and ship hulls—leading to improved fuel economy and increased payload.
· Marine Industry
Serves as a core material for boat hulls, decks, and floating structures, offering exceptional buoyancy, saltwater resistance, and corrosion protection.
· Aerospace & Aviation
Used in aircraft interiors, UAV sandwich structures, and lightweight panels, with fire-retardant and TŰV SŰD-certified safety standards.
· Wind Energy
Provides lightweight, fatigue-resistant cores for wind turbine blades and nacelle components, supporting the drive for renewable energy.
· Signage & Advertising
Lightweight, rigid, and printable, PVC foam is a top choice for indoor and outdoor advertising displays, exhibition panels, and signage.
· Furniture Manufacturing
Used in cabinets, shelves, decorative elements, and high-end architectural cladding.
· Industrial Applications
For chemical tanks, machine guards, electrical insulation, and tooling boards requiring precision and high mechanical strength.
· Sports Equipment
Trusted by global brands for surfboards, bicycle helmets, archery targets, and other high-performance, shock-absorbent equipment.
More application methods are being continuously developed based on market demand and custom requirements—UNION COMPOSITES welcomes new challenges and innovations!
PVC foam is available in a variety of colors, surface finishes, and textures. It can be laminated, printed, or coated to achieve premium visual effects while maintaining functional performance. This makes it suitable for both technical and decorative uses.
The diagram below showcases UNION’s advanced PVC foam surface treatment parameters.
The following videos demonstrate UNION’s precision PVC foam machining processes in action. You’ll see:
V-Groove Cutting:CNC-guided V-groove cutting for bendable composites
Micro-Perforation: Automated punching for optimal resin infusion in sandwich panels
For more industrial applications:
▶ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel UNION PVC for:
➤ Weekly PVC foam tech breakdowns
➤ Live factory tours
➤ Industry-specific solutions
PVC foam is recyclable and reduces dependence on natural wood resources, helping to conserve forests and support sustainable development. As environmental awareness increases, PVC foam’s green credentials are becoming more important for global customers.
As a world-class PVC foam board and sheet manufacturer, UNION COMPOSITES offers:
· 15+ years of production experience with over 200 sets of molds for extensive customization
· DNV GL-certified, ISO-compliant factory, ensuring product safety and reliability
· Precision CNC cutting, customized surface treatments, and processing according to your drawings and specifications
· No minimum order quantity (MOQ) and free samples for testing
· Rapid delivery: 5-7 days for small orders, 15-20 days for full container loads
· Full suite of vacuum infusion and autoclave auxiliary materials (peel ply, vacuum bagging film, flow mesh, spiral tube, sealant tape, vacuum hose, connectors, and more)
· 24/7 technical and commercial support with multi-language engineers
· Comprehensive global logistics, including customized palletization, AEO-accredited customs clearance in over 30 countries
· Real-time production updates and 3-stage quality inspection from raw material to finished goods
The global PVC foam board market is experiencing robust growth. In 2024, the market was valued at USD 1.143 billion, and is projected to reach USD 1.719 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0%. This surge is driven by the continuous demand for high-performance, lightweight, and sustainable materials across industries.
UNION COMPOSITES, as the first PVC foam factory in Asia, continues to lead the market by exploring new applications, serving new customers, and delivering superior quality and service. Our products are trusted by over 500 enterprises in 30+ countries, and our global recognition is growing year by year.
Note: E=Estimated, P=Projected; Data sources: Grand View Research, MarketsandMarkets, industry interviews.
Grand View Research. (2024). *PVC Foam Board Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report 2024-2031*.
MarketsandMarkets. (2023). *Polymer Foam Market by Type (PVC, PE, PP), End-Use Industry (Building & Construction, Automotive), and Region - Global Forecast to 2031*.
· Thickness range: 2mm–70mm (customizable)
· Thickness tolerance: ±0.2mm
· Density variation: <3%
· Water absorption: <1.5% (ASTM D2842)
· Operating temperature: -50°C to +80°C
· Fire rating: UL94 V-0, self-extinguishing
· Eco-friendliness: Recyclable, formaldehyde-free
UNION COMPOSITES can also point out potential process problems for customers, and provide optimized solutions based on your specific manufacturing process.
Q: Is PVC foam the same as PE foam?
A: No. Compared to PE foam, PVC foam offers a wider temperature range (-50~+80°C vs -20~+60°C), superior fire safety (UL94 V-0 vs PE’s flammability), longer service life, and is more eco-friendly. PVC is ideal for structural and fireproof applications; PE foam is better for cushioning and packaging.
Q: What’s the difference between regular foam board and PVC foam board?
A: PVC foam is stronger (up to 25MPa+ vs <1MPa for EPS), UV-stable (doesn’t crumble outdoors), and machinable with CNC precision.
Q: Can I get custom sizes or surface treatments?
A: Yes! UNION offers full customization—thickness, density, color, finishes, grooving, punching, CNC cutting, and more.
Q: What is your delivery time and sample policy?
A: Fast delivery: 5–7 days for small orders, 15–20 days for containers. No MOQ; free samples available.
Q: Do you supply other composite core and vacuum auxiliary materials?
A: Yes! We provide PET foam, PU foam, PP honeycomb, FRP sandwich core, and all vacuum infusion/auxiliary materials.
PVC foam is a high-performance material that combines the best of plastic and wood—lightweight, durable, easy to fabricate, and suitable for countless applications. As industries raise their standards for material performance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency, PVC foam is proving to be the material of choice.
With UNION COMPOSITES, you benefit from:
· Industry-leading expertise and technical support
· Strict quality control and international certifications
· Custom solutions for every project
· Rapid global delivery and attentive service
No matter your industry or application, UNION PVC foam delivers superior quality, reliability, and value.
Interested in PVC foam for your next project?
Need expert advice or a custom solution?
Contact UNION COMPOSITES for a free sample, technical consultation, or quote within 12 hours!
· Email: admin@unioncomposites.com
· WhatsApp/WeChat: +86-13775063485
