Paper, bubble wrap, and corrugated cardboard are useful shipping materials, but are limited in the amount of protection they can offer. Some objects are too delicate, too heavy, or have other special needs that can’t be accommodated with general use packaging. Foam packaging offers a simple but comprehensive alternative. Polyurethane foam can cushion heavy objects, guard against scratches, and compress or expand to fill a space. Expanded polystyrene is an excellent insulator and protects against crushing. Polyethylene foam takes many forms, and can be used in versatile sheets to wrap products, or in water jet cut custom shapes as protective dunnage. Adherex offers a wide variety of foam packaging types to meet any shipping challenge.

Foam Sheets/Rolls/Pouches:

Layers of foam in varying thicknesses offer a versatile option for wrapping or interleaving between fragile items, lining containers, or—when used as pouches—organizing smaller products. These sheets are typically made from polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, and occasionally polystyrene.

PE Stretch Foam (Polyethylene):

This tear-resistant foam fits uniquely shaped items and has a high coefficient of friction—it clings to the surfaces it protects without damaging them, and prevents sliding during shipping.

PU Foam (Polyurethane):

Polyurethane foam is soft and flexible, frequently used for upholstery or in “egg crate” cushioning. Adherex can craft die-cut specialty pieces for unique applications.

EPS Foam (Expanded Polystyrene):

EPS foam is rigid but protective, preventing delicate items from scratching or crushing. It is also an excellent insulator, and can line food or medical storage containers—or even be made into a container itself. It is extremely light, minimizing the impact to shipping costs.

PE Foam (Polyethylene):

Another rigid foam, PE foam is more durable and less brittle, making it ideal for holding items in place during transportation or minimizing vibrations. It can also be used to insulate items that need to be kept cool.

EPE Foam (Expanded Polyethylene):

This foam is extremely strong and compact, but also flexible. EPE foam can also provide insulation, and is more space-efficient than other foam options, although not as protective against scratching. For special applications or custom dunnage, Adherex offers die and water jet cutting.

EPP Foam (Expanded Polypropylene):

EPP foam is strong and handles compression well, making it a good option for transporting heavy or unsteady objects. It is also used as insulation in homes and cars. Because it is specially molded, it is most commonly used for highly specific applications.

Adherex’s wide range of foam packaging solutions gives manufacturers and distributors the flexibility to find exactly the right solution for their needs, whether they are searching for dunnage, insulation, or specialty shipping protection. Customers can consult with Adherex’s protective packaging experts on foam properties and applications, and specialty manufacturers can take advantage of Adherex’s die and water jet cutting capabilities—not offered by many vendors domestically—to design the perfect packaging solution. Adherex is invested in customers’ success, and in finding the foam packaging solution that fits their needs and budget.

Should I choose PE or PU foam?

Polyurethane foam’s flexibility and insulating properties makes it well suited to furniture, upholstery, and certain automotive applications. Polyethylene foam absorbs shock well and resists moisture, making it popular for packaging, construction materials, and sports equipment.

Can PE and PU foams be recycled?

Yes—but they are not equally easy to recycle. Polyethylene foam can be melted and re-formed fairly easily, while polyurethane foam is more often repurposed as-is or chemically dissolved. Check with your local government or recycling program for more information and regulations.

Is PU foam toxic?

No, polyurethane foam is not toxic in itself. However, certain additives and production methods introduce chemicals that can have adverse effects on human health. To minimize any risk when working with PU foam, wear personal protective equipment and ensure adequate ventilation.

Ensuring that a package arrives with its contents intact is critical for retailers and manufacturers of all types. This is especially true in the transportation industry, where fragile parts like glass must be moved between facilities for assembly. Medical and food suppliers also need antimicrobial and temperature control solutions.