POLYURETHANE FOAM FOR INSULATION
Polyurethane foam is classified as a specialty a chemical . It is comprised of 2 components.
The Polyol
The Isocyanate
The 2 PARTS are mixed in a ratio of 1:1 to form the rigid foam. The foam solidifies to a specific desired hardness. The rigid foam is very effective in Thermal insulation.
Even though the pu foam is used in diverse applications, The main application is in heat/Thermal insulation.
At Kiki’s Industrial Chemicals ltd, We supply quality pu foam.Europen standards . Get in touch with us for your next insulation project. Call us @ +254713002961
Key Benefits
1: Superior Thermal Performance
Achieve R-6.5 Per inch with closed-cellfoam
2:Air& Moisture Barrier
It seals Cracks and resists Humidity, preventing mold,and reducing energy leaks by upto 40%
3:Long Term Saving
Cut Heating/cooling costs by 20 -50 % with a one time installation that lasts 50+ Years.
4:Eco-friendly
Reduces Carbon foot print with energy- Efficient Performance. Compliant with all Environmental standards . NEMA/ LEEDS
Applications of Polyurethane foam
1. Residential Applications
A. Home Envelope Insulation
Attics & Roofs:
Closed-cell foam (2–3” thickness) creates an air-tight thermal barrier, preventing ice dams in cold climates and reducing AC load in hot regions.
R-value: Up to R-20 for 3” of closed-cell foam vs. R-10 for fiberglass batts.
Walls (Cavity & Exterior):
Open-cell foam (3.5” depth) fills stud cavities without expanding pressure, ideal for retrofitting older homes.
Exterior Spray: Closed-cell foam applied under siding for continuous insulation (ci), meeting modern building codes (e.g., IECC 2021).
Basements & Crawl Spaces:
Moisture-resistant closed-cell foam prevents condensation on cold walls, reducing mold risk.
Bonus: Doubles as a radon barrier when applied to foundation interiors.
B. Specialty Residential Uses
Tiny Homes & ADUs:
Maximizes limited space: 2” of closed-cell foam = R-13 vs. 3.5” of fiberglass (R-11).
Historic Renovations:
Preserves aesthetics by insulating walls without disturbing original finishes.
Garages & Workshops:
Fire-retardant formulations meet code requirements for attached garages.
2. Commercial Applications
A. Building Types
Offices & Retail:
Open-cell foam in interior walls for sound absorption (STC ratings up to 50).
Closed-cell foam in roofing systems for energy efficiency and hail resistance.
Cold Storage & Refrigeration:
Walk-in freezers: Closed-cell foam (4–6” thick) maintains -20°F temps with minimal thermal bridging.
Food Safety: NSF-certified foams for direct contact with food storage areas.
Warehouses:
Insulates metal roofs to prevent condensation drips and reduces HVAC costs in high-ceiling spaces.
B. Mechanical Systems
HVAC Ducts:
Sprayed externally to prevent condensation and reduce thermal loss by 15–20%.
Pipe Insulation:
Pre-fabricated foam shells for chillers, steam lines, and industrial process pipes.
3. Industrial Applications
A. Infrastructure
Oil & Gas Pipelines:
3-layer polyurethane foam coatings (up to 4” thick) maintain crude oil viscosity during Arctic transport.
Chemical Tanks:
Closed-cell foam resists corrosion from acidic vapors (pH 2–12 range).
B. Transportation
Marine Vessels:
Buoyancy-grade foam in boat hulls (4–8 lb/ft³ density) provides flotation + insulation.
Aerospace:
Lightweight fireproof foam (UL94 V-0 rated) for aircraft cabin insulation.
4. Agricultural & Specialized
Livestock Barns:
Closed-cell foam reduces ammonia corrosion in poultry houses and maintains stable temps for dairy cows.
Greenhouses:
Insulates north walls in cold climates while allowing light transmission.
Wine Cellars:
Maintains 55°F ±2°F year-round with 3” closed-cell foam walls + vapor barrier.
Technical Considerations by Application
| Application | Foam Type | Thickness | Key Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arctic Pipelines | Closed-cell, HDPE | 4–6” | Cryogenic flexibility (-60°F) |
| Soundproof Theaters | Open-cell, acoustic | 5–8” | NRC 0.95 rating |
| Flood Zone Basements | Closed-cell, hydro | 2–3” | 100% water-impermeable |
| Attic Radiant Barrier | Closed-cell, IR-reflective | 1” | Reflects 97% IR heat |
