Polyurethane resin demand in the US is expected to reach 7.6 billion pounds (3.4 million tonnes) by 2009, representing a 2.8% annual growth rate, according to Freedonia Group.
The US research group forecasts flexible PU foam to grow by 1.9% annually to 2.6 billion pounds (1.2 million tonnes) in 2009. Although the bedding sector is a mature market, it said it has been revitalised by the success of memory foam.
Rigid PU foam demand is expected to increase at a 3.4% annual rate to 2.4 billion pounds (1.1 million tonnes). This will be driven by its use in building, tank and pipe insulation applications.
Gains in coatings will be stimulated by increasing use of environmentally friendly PU-based powder coatings. Freedonia expects this segment to grow by 3.1% per year to reach 740 million pounds (340,000 tonnes) in 2009.
Construction markets will account for 36% of all polyurethane use. Growth in this market will result from heightened energy efficiency standards and the need for better performing and lower cost materials.
