Acoustic Foams (Melamine & Polyurethane)
Open-cell foam materials used for noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) management and thermal insulation throughout the vehicle interior and powertrain.
Overview
Acoustic foams — primarily melamine foam and polyurethane (PU) foam — are used extensively in automotive NVH engineering to absorb sound energy and dampen vibration. Melamine foam (e.g. Basotect™) is an open-cell thermoset foam with exceptional sound absorption across a wide frequency range, low density, and good thermal resistance. PU foam is more versatile and cost-effective, used in headliners, door panels, seat cushions, engine bay insulators, and carpet underlays. Both materials are used as die-cut or moulded insulation pads in wheel arches, firewalls, and floor systems.
Automotive Applications
Properties
Category
Type
Acoustic / Thermal Foam
Available Colors
Available Forms
Key Properties
- High sound absorption coefficient
- Low density
- Good thermal insulation
- Flame retardant (melamine)
- Flexible and conformable
- Easy to fabricate
Technical Specifications
Density
0.008–0.030 g/cm³
Temperature Resistance
Up to 240°C (melamine); up to 120°C (PU)
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
PU foams are difficult to recycle. Melamine foam is a thermoset and cannot be reprocessed. Research into bio-based PU foams and mechanical foam recycling is ongoing.