Types, properties, and applications of polyethylene foam
The versatile properties of polyethylene foam have likely been described in every possible way — and for good reason. There’s no exaggeration here: this material performs reliably even in demanding conditions. Tears or scratches? PE foam offers top-tier protection for a wide range of surfaces during transport. Let’s take a closer look at how you can use it — and the products made from it.
What are the properties of PE foam?
Polyethylene foam (PE), also known as technical foam, is a synthetic material created through the foaming process of polyethylene. Depending on its density, there are several types of polyethylene foam, each with distinct properties and applications.
These include:
LDPE
Low-Density Polyethylene,
LLDPE
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene,
MDPE
Medium-Density Polyethylene,
HDPE
High-Density Polyethylene,
UHMWPE
Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene,
PEX
Cross-Linked Polyethylene.
READ MORE —> The most frequently chosen PE foams
Advantages of polyethylene foam
One of the key advantages of polyethylene foam is its remarkable flexibility — even at extremely low temperatures down to -60°C. At the same time, it is resistant to high temperatures and non-flammable, making it an excellent protective material in demanding environments.
PE foam is also highly resistant to tearing and mechanical damage. It provides excellent impact protection and is moisture-resistant — it does not absorb or let through water or humidity, which makes it ideal for packaging applications. Additionally, it is antistatic and UV-resistant, making it suitable for protecting electronics and other sensitive products.
Importantly, PE foam is produced without harmful substances. It is chemically neutral (non-reactive) and odorless, ensuring safe use across various industries.
Another benefit is its extremely low weight, which makes it easy to handle and reduces shipping costs by not adding extra weight to the package.
Moreover, polyethylene foam is reusable — it can be used multiple times for packaging purposes. And when it’s no longer needed, proper disposal and recycling allow it to be repurposed, giving it a second — or even third — life as a raw material.
Top uses of polyethylene foam
Polyethylene foam has a wide range of applications as a packaging material.
Polyethylene foam in the construction industry
PE foam is commonly used as a thermal and acoustic insulation material. It serves as an underlay for laminate and wood flooring, as well as ceiling insulation. Thanks to its excellent thermal performance, it is also used to insulate pipes and various building installations. Additionally, PE foam can be used to fill air conditioning and ventilation ducts.
It’s also worth noting that PE foam, when used as an edge insulation strip, provides a simple solution for separating floors from walls — especially in areas where materials need space to expand due to temperature changes. This improves both thermal and acoustic comfort in interiors.
Our SONG edge insulation strip (5 mm thick) is certified by the Building Research Institute in Warsaw (Instytut Techniki Budowlanej), confirming that it meets the requirements for materials used in construction.
Polyethylene foam in the sports and rehabilitation industry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, polyethylene foam (PE) and styrofoam (expanded polystyrene, EPS) are two different materials with distinct structures and properties. While both are lightweight and used in insulation and product protection, PE foam — especially in HDPE and UHMWPE variants — offers significantly greater resistance to impact, deformation, and environmental conditions.
Unlike brittle and easily breakable styrofoam, polyethylene foam is durable, flexible, and resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and chemicals. These properties make it suitable not only for packaging, but also for use in construction and industry — wherever long-lasting, reliable protection is essential.
These are two different materials with distinct chemical and mechanical properties. PE foam is a homogeneous synthetic material that is highly resistant to moisture, flexible, antistatic, and non-absorbent. It performs exceptionally well as a packaging and technical insulation material.
In contrast, PUR (polyurethane) foam is created by combining two chemical components and is known for its excellent thermal insulation properties. It can withstand a wider temperature range (down to -200°C), but it is flammable and less resistant to UV radiation. As a result, it is not ideal for outdoor use unless properly protected.
In practice: PE foam is better suited for protective transport applications, while PUR foam is more effective in specialized thermal insulation systems.
It’s not uncommon to face the choice between polyethylene foam and polypropylene foam. Each has distinct properties that suit different needs.
Polypropylene-based products are easy to install and are more commonly used in the form of spray foam for mounting applications. PP foam can be used for both indoor and outdoor work.
Both materials provide good thermal and acoustic insulation, but the right choice depends on the specific application.
In Summary
Thanks to its unique properties, polyethylene foam is used across a wide range of industries — not just in packaging. It’s a lightweight and flexible material that insulates, protects delicate surfaces, absorbs shocks, and adapts easily to various shapes. Its versatility makes it a go-to solution for protecting goods during transport and storage, as well as a trusted material in many other sectors.
As we’ve seen, it’s not only foam in rolls that matters — various forms and formats of PE foam meet the needs of diverse applications, from product protection and added reinforcement to acoustic insulation.
If you’re wondering whether it’s the right choice, rest assured: polyethylene foam is one of the most reliable materials for protecting surfaces from damage.
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Specializing in the sales of PE foam and bubble wrap, he effectively addresses the needs of clients in the packaging industry. With years of experience, deep market knowledge, and strong negotiation skills, he creates tailored offers and builds long-term business relationships. Outside of work, he’s passionate about basketball — a sport that has taught him the value of teamwork and consistency in achieving goals.
