Why PolycellTM Closed Cell Foam? Foam is created when you trap gas bubbles inside a chemical resin. Foam can be created through an endothermic (heat) or an exothermic (mixing chemicals) reaction. It starts as a solid and whichever process is used, foaming occurs that creates the cell structure and, ultimately, foam. In general, most common closed cell foam is manufactured by the endothermic and open cell by the exothermic process. The more you understand the needs of your application, the more you will be able to decide if you need an open cell or closed cell foam structure for your product. (See illustration on the right depicting the differences.)
Open cell foam contains bubbles which are interconnected to each other in a wide web. A kitchen sponge is an example of open cell foam (shown left). Open cell foam can be soft and it will absorb any liquid it comes in contact with. It is perfect for many applications, especially if you require extreme softness and there is no contact with a liquid environment. Another example is a foam mattress. However, it cannot be used for a floatation application, as once it begins to absorb liquid, it will absorb too much weight in liquid and begin to sink.
PolycellTM molded closed cell foam is not connected, one cell to another. Each cell is discrete which prevents absorption. This includes liquids, bacteria or blood-borne pathogens making it a great choice for "clean" applications. In addition, because it doesn't absorb liquid, closed cell foam is perfectly suited for many industries.
- Pool and Spa
- Swimming
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Water Skiing
- Wake Board
- Snow Skiing
- Kitchen
- Bath
So, as you can see, products produced of molded closed cell foam offer many benefits that can never be achieved by open cell foam.