A blowing agent is a chemical compound used in the production of foam in plastic materials. Blowing agents are mixed into the material and heated, causing the blowing agent to decompose and emit a gas. This gas causes the plastic to expand and form tiny bubbles, resulting in a foamed product. Because of the growing demand for lightweight and energy-efficient products, the use and demand for blowing agents have increased.
Blowing agents are widely used in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, and electronics. They are also used in the production of insulation materials like spray foam and rigid foam boards. Blowing agents are also used in the production of lightweight plastic packagings like food trays and bottles. The global blowing agent market size is projected to reach USD 1.6 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 9.5%, between 2020 and 2025. Blowing agents are defined as a chemical substances capable of producing pores or cells in polymeric compositions.
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC), and hydrocarbons are the most commonly used blowing agents. HFCs and HCFCs are synthetic blowing agents with low environmental impact and excellent insulation properties. Hydrocarbons are naturally occurring blowing agents that are used because they are inexpensive and have little environmental impact.
The key players in the blowing agents market are Honeywell International Inc. (US), Solvay SA (Belgium), Arkema SA (France), Exxon Mobil Corporation (US), Linde plc (UK), Daikin Industries, Ltd. (Japan), The Chemours Company (US), Haltermann Carless (Germany), Foam Supplies, Inc. (US), Harp International Ltd. (UK).
