Performance Polymers

Elastofoam®: A polyurethane foam with a flexible core and a robust skin

Elastofoam® is a polyurethane (PU) integral skin foam system used in furniture and automotive applications. It combines the comfort of a foam core with the protection of a compact skin in a single production step.

Driver holding a modern car steering wheel.

Key Advantages of Elastofoam®:

  • Cost-effective one-shot processing with integrated surface
  • High abrasion resistance
  • Combines acoustic absorption and transmission loss
  • Decorative surface finish
  • Resistant to mechanical stress and chemicals
  • Low thermal conductivity

Why choose Elastofoam® as polyurethane system for your application?

Elastofoam® reproduces the texture of the mould surface perfectly providing a soft, pleasant touch. Adding an appropriate coating enhances UV-, scratch- and abrasion resistant. Further, Elastofoam® can be moulded in a wide density range and offers a unique material profile also for highly sophisticated applications. Its mono-material design possibilities can facilitate design for recycling strategies.

Where are Elastofoam® integral foam systems used?

Elastofoam® is extensively employed in the automotive and furniture industries. Its strong mechanical performance makes it a common choice for cable encapsulation and grommets, acoustic applications, oil pan covers and gaskets in filter elements. Where surface appearance counts as well, it turns up in visible parts such as steering wheels, mono-material  seats, armrests and gear shift knobs.

Comfort components

Elastofoam® enables durable components with premium haptics, design flexibility and attractive surface finishes for furniture and automotive industries.

Comfortable and durable furniture solutions that combine ergonomic support, lasting comfort, and design flexibility for residential and commercial applications

Cushioning components

Elastofoam® ensures long-term shock-absorbing and rebound effects combined with pleasant haptics, robust surfaces & abrasion resistance.

Protective case with custom foam insert for safe equipment transport and storage.

Acoustic components

Elastofoam® delivers durable, noise-reducing acoustic parts with attractive surfaces and enhanced pedestrian safety.

Lightweight engine cover solutions that combine acoustic performance, thermal insulation, and design flexibility for modern automotive applications.

Air filter gaskets

Elastofoam® delivers durable filter gaskets that ensure reliable, long-lasting sealing performance for cleaner air.

Sealing solutions for air filtration systems, providing reliable protection against dust and contaminants while ensuring optimal airflow and performance.

Steering wheels

Elastofoam® enables comfortable steering wheels with integrated airbag covers, combining safety, durability, premium design and pleasant touch.

Soft-touch steering wheel components that enhance comfort, grip, and design quality while meeting demanding automotive performance requirements.

Cable encapsulation

Elastofoam® enables easy assembly of cable harnesses & grommets with reliable moisture insulation.

Protective encapsulation solutions for cables and wire harnesses, ensuring durability, insulation, and reliable performance in demanding environments.

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FAQ

Q: What is Elastofoam®?
Elastofoam® is BASF’s polyurethane integral skin foam system, combining a lightweight foam core with a durable outer skin in a single manufacturing step.

 

Q: What is Elastofoam® used for?
Elastofoam® is used in automotive, transportation and furniture applications, including steering wheels, armrests, seat shells, engine covers, gear shift knobs, air filter gaskets, cable encapsulations and utility vehicle components.

 

Q: What are the benefits of Elastofoam®?
Elastofoam® combines design freedom, pleasant haptics, durability and efficient processing, making it suitable for a wide range of molded parts.

 

Q: Why choose Elastofoam®?
Elastofoam® offers a unique combination of soft-touch surfaces, high abrasion resistance, impact durability and excellent surface quality.

 

Q: What makes Elastofoam® different from conventional foam systems?
Elastofoam® combines a flexible foam core and a tough, decorative outer skin in a single material system, eliminating the need for additional surface coverings in many applications.

 

Q: Can Elastofoam® be customized?
Yes. Elastofoam® can reproduce a wide variety of mould textures and surface finishes, enabling attractive designs with smooth or textured appearances.

 

Q: What industries use Elastofoam®?
Elastofoam® is used in the automotive and furniture industries, as well as other applications requiring durable and comfortable surfaces.

 

Q: What applications are suitable for Elastofoam®?
Typical applications include steering wheels, integrated airbag covers, armrests, seat shells, engine covers, gear shift knobs, cable harness covers, air filter gaskets and acoustic components.

 

Q: How does Elastofoam® support product durability?
Its robust integral skin and excellent mechanical properties help parts withstand wear, impacts and demanding operating conditions over long service lives.

 

Q: What is a polyurethane integral skin foam?
A polyurethane integral skin foam is a material consisting of a lightweight foam core and a dense outer skin formed during moulding, creating parts that combine comfort, durability and attractive surface finishes.