Polyethylene Foam
(see also: Cross-Linked PE Foam) Polyethylene is a closed cell, expanded, extruded flexible plastic foam. It is primarily used as a protective packaging material because of its predictable shock absorbing qualities. It is available in densities from 1.2 lbs./cu. ft. up to 6.0 lbs./cu. ft. The compression (firmness) of polyethylene foam is directly related to its density — the heavier the foam, the harder it is. Polyethylene foam is available in roll or sheet/plank form. Due to the nature of the extrusion process that produces this material, the thickness of rolls and planks is very limited. In order to provide thickness greater than 2.0 inches, this material must be laminated. The resulting material can be up to three layers thick for a total of 6.0 inches for bulk foam. Fabrication using various adhesives across smaller areas can produce much thicker combinations. |
