Polyolefin foams are a relatively recent development in comparison to other foams such as polyurethane and polystyrene. The main processes were introduced in the 1960s with significant commercial production beginning in the 1970s.

Polyolefins are tough, flexible and resistant to most chemicals. Foams made from polyolefins retain and exhibit most of these properties as well. Most polyolefin foams have a closed cell structure which renders them suitable for applications where elasticity and resiliency are important such as in packaging applications, civil engineering, automobiles, insulation applications, for sports and leisure activities and agriculture.

Polyolefins used in foaming applications include polyethylene, polypropylene,… and respective copolymers such as ethylene-butylacrylate (EBA).

Polyolefin foams manufacturing technologies are classified depending on the type of foaming agent used, achieved degree of crosslinking and process machinery/processing equipment.