Monday 2 April 2018

Metal Foams – Composite Material of the Future

Metal foams are metals with cellular structures comprising gas pores. They are characterized by their high porosity, absorption, and impact resistance. Open and closed-cell foams are its two major types. Benefits associated with these metals have led to its inclusion as a vital component in industrial sectors such as aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and automotive.
Demand for composite materials driven by production of fuel-efficient cars in Europe and U.S.  coupled with stringent emission policies are expected to culminate in high production of aluminum-based metal foams. In addition, researchers in North Carolina University have written a white paper in 2017 outlining its efficacy against radiation.


Lightweight and Shock-Absorbent Nature

Major end-use segments of the metal foam market include aerospace, automotive, industrial, and construction.

The automotive segment is anticipated to be the largest segment from 2014 to 2025 due to rising use of metal foams in bumpers and anti-intrusion bars in automobiles. In addition, the low weight of metal foams assist in curtailing vehicle emission, thus ensuring constant demand till 2025. Closed-cell aluminum foams are being used in cars for their shock absorption capacity and have tested well in crash protection systems.

The aerospace segment is expected to exhibit a significant growth rate due to high demand for low-cost aircraft in developing economies. Presence of major aircraft manufacturers such as North America and Boeing and their need for lightweight materials can contribute to this segment’s demand. High demand for metal foams can be credited to their use in heat exchangers and energy absorbers. This can be exemplified by the use of Duocel foams by ERG Aerospace due to its high conductivity and porosity.

Market Outlook

The global metal foam market is anticipated to touch USD 117.7 million by 2025, as per a report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market demand is expected to reach 2.24 kilotons by 2025. Advantages of metal foams are projected to positively impact the market. Strict environmental norms regarding pollution in automobiles are expected to augur market demand from 2014 to 2025 (forecast period). Alliances with die makers to create customized metal foams are predicted to spur market volume over the forecast period. Key market players include Cymat Technologies, Aluinvent Zrt., ERG Aerospace Corporation, and American Elements.

In-Depth Research Report On Metal Foam Market:
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/metal-foam-market

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