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Innovation in foam technology: The versatility of EBA foams

Polyolefin foams are a relatively recent development compared to other foams such as polyurethane and polystyrene. The main processes were introduced in the 1960s and commercial production began in the 1970s. Polyolefins are tough, flexible and resistant to most chemicals, and foams made from polyolefins retain and exhibit most of these properties. Most polyolefin foams have a closed cell structure which makes them suitable for applications where elasticity and resilience are important, such as packaging applications, construction, automotive, insulation, sports and leisure and agriculture.

Polyolefins used for foam applications include polyethylene, polypropylene,... and corresponding copolymers such as ethylene butyl acrylate (EBA). The technologies for the production of polyolefin foams are differentiated according to the type of blowing agent used, the degree of cross-linking achieved and the process machinery/processing equipment.

Versatile applications: Foams with Lucofin® EBA

LDPE foams are semi-rigid. To give LDPE foams more softness without elasticity, 10-50% polar copolymers are often added as part of the formulation. Suitable polar copolymers are ethylene butyl acrylate (EBA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA),... and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer indicates the transition from a hard and rigid state to a rubbery state. A low Tg is therefore important to maintain the soft and flexible properties under ambient conditions that are typical for most applications.

Therefore, Lucofin® EBA in combination with LDPE is an excellent choice to produce soft and resilient foams that maintain their properties even at very low temperatures. Applications for EBA foams include pipe insulation, expansion joints, gaskets and camping mats, etc. All Lucofin® grades from LUCOBIT AG are based on EBA and are therefore perfectly suited for use in all polyolefin foams, especially those that require excellent properties at low temperatures.

Versatile applications for foams: From the automotive industry to agriculture

These applications demonstrate the versatility and wide range of uses of EBA foams in various branches of industry.

  • Automotive sector: EBA foams are used in the automotive industry for seals, sound insulation and to improve shock absorption.
  • Construction: The foams are used in construction projects for insulating buildings, filling cavities and sound insulation.
  • Electronics industry: EBA foams can be used as seals or cushioning material in electronic devices to protect sensitive components.
  • Medical applications: Due to their softness and flexibility, EBA foams are suitable for medical packaging, padding and prostheses.
  • Leisure and sports equipment: Foams with EBA are suitable for the manufacture of sports mats, swimming aids and other leisure products.
  • Agriculture: In agriculture, EBA foams can be used for applications such as crop protection, sound insulation in livestock facilities and to improve packaging solutions.

Lucofin® EBA: The perfect combination of flexibility and robustness!

  • Flexibility and elasticity
  • Resistance to low temperatures
  • Semi-rigid structure with additional softness
  • Chemical resistance
  • Closed cell structure for improved insulation properties

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