With its unmatched versatility, polyethylene foam (PE) is one of the most useful materials in the market that is used for a wide array of applications. It is a kind of a closed-cell foam material that is made up of millions of small bubbles, making it highly resistant to water. It is also very resistant to solvents and other chemicals and can prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. Because of its resiliency, polyethylene foam can return to its form even after compression, while providing enough cushion and security of the materials it protects.
All of those properties, plus the various options for customization, make PE foam so usable in a number of projects. It is produced by heating polymer compounds and can also be formulated with additives to alter its properties before being heated and extruded into its solid form. It comes in anti-static and fire retardant varieties. The additives are already combined in the formula, which enables the features of polyethylene foam to be consistent all the way through the material.
Same with other types of foams, PE foam comes in varying densities for various application purposes. The bigger the density of the foam, the smaller and thicker the cell walls are, resulting in a stronger material. Its anti-static quality helps in the handling, packaging and transportation of fragile electronics by eliminating the electrostatic charges that can damage parts.
Moreover, fire retardancy makes polyethylene foam resistant to heat. Higher grades even have the potential to self-extinguish when ignited compared to untreated materials, making these PE foam a perfect choice in insulation and construction industries. Some PE foam variations contain both of these characteristics for a highly specialized job such as in the case of sensitive machinery. Lastly, the foam is available in various shapes and sizes. With its range of densities, formulations and styles, along with its multiple-use, polyethylene is one of the most versatile foam products offering broad possibilities.
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