Differences Between Melamine Foam and Polyurethane Foam
When it comes to sound insulation, thermal insulation, and vibration damping solutions, the two most commonly used types of foam are:
Melamine foam and Polyurethane foam.
So, what are the technical differences between these two materials? And in which situations should one be preferred over the other?
Basic Comparison Table
|
Feature |
Melamine Foam |
Polyurethane Foam |
|
Raw Material |
Melamine resin (rigid thermoset) |
Polyurethane (flexible structure) |
|
Fire Resistance |
✅ Naturally flame-retardant |
🔸 Can be made flame-retardant with additives |
|
Density (kg/m³) |
~8–12 (very light) |
20–35 (standard); higher densities also available |
|
Heat Resistance |
✅ Up to +240°C |
⚠️ Between +80–120°C |
|
Sound Absorption (NRC value) |
🔸 Moderate to high |
✅ High (customizable forms) |
|
Chemical Resistance |
Medium |
Medium |
|
Color Options |
Usually light gray |
Available in black, anthracite, and other colors |
|
Price |
Higher |
Budget-friendly options available |
When to Use Melamine Foam
-
In high-temperature environments (generator rooms, HVAC, around furnaces)
-
In areas requiring flame-retardant materials
-
When lightweight and aesthetic appearance are desired
-
For vertical installations like ceiling panels or suspended foam
When to Choose Polyurethane Foam
-
In areas requiring medium-level sound insulation and vibration control
-
For cost-focused projects
-
In studios, offices, or cabin interiors with stable temperature conditions
-
For acoustic applications with egg-crate, pyramid, or labyrinth patterns
Conclusion
Both foam types offer distinct advantages.
Melamine foam stands out for its lightness and thermal resistance, while polyurethane foam is more widely used due to its formability and cost-effectiveness.
At MAS Global, we help you choose the right foam material according to your application needs.