Volara Blog

As sustainability takes center stage in manufacturing, companies are increasingly driven by both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations to enhance their environmental responsibility. Sustainability has become not just an aspiration but an essential component of business strategies across industries.

Closed-cell foam is a versatile material that is beneficial in various industries due to its unique structure and properties. The term “closed-cell” refers to the internal makeup of the foam, where cells (or bubbles) are completely enclosed, providing a dense, non-permeable surface.

SEKISUI Voltek offers a variety of closed-cell foam solutions for clients in numerous markets. We have more than 55 years of experience delivering effective closed-cell foam products designed through innovation to meet our customers’ specific needs.

SEKISUI Voltek is one of the world’s leading producers of closed-cell, cross-linked polyolefin foam.

SEKISUI Voltek’s closed cell, cross-linked polyolefin Volara® foam has grown to become a widely recognized brand of foam. Volara is found in many everyday applications for the transportation, medical and general industrial markets. As one can imagine, becoming the leader in the closed-cell, cross-linked polyolefin foam market did not happen overnight. This blog covers the history of SEKISUI Voltek and the start of making our Volara foam.

When it comes to foam materials, there are two methods of crosslinking: irradiation, or physically crosslinking, and chemically cross-linking. These methods have their own unique characteristics and result in foam with differing properties.

Last week was “Race Week” here in Michigan, and we are spotlighting how and where SEKSIUI Voltek’s Volara® foam is used within the automotive market. Our product range includes an assortment of polyethylene and polypropylene foams designed specifically to meet the needs of the global automotive industry.

In recent years, the US and other countries have been following a more environmentally conscious approach to halogenated flame retardants, leading to increased regulation across various industries where halogens can be used, and has ignited (no pun intended), the demand for halogen-free options.

What is Volara foam? Volara is a closed-cell, irradiation cross-linked foam, meaning air and moisture cannot pass through. Additionally, our foam goes through a special radiation crosslinking process to enhance its performance and functionality capabilities. Its smooth surface, consistent density and uniform gauge offers unmatched physical properties.