Polyethylene - PE, EPE, XPE & EVA Foams

About

Polyethylene (PE) is the most commonly used plastic polymer in the world with annual production of 60 million tonnes - which considering its low density, is a heap - close to two billion cubic meters! It is produced through the polymerization of ethylene. The process forms long chains of ethylene which are linked, or not, depending on whether a catalyst is used in production. The category name ‘Polyethylene Foams’ , includes products known as EPE , Ethafoam, LDPE, PE, XPE , IXPE and EVA . Foam Sales carries the main types of industrial Polyethylene and EVA Foams in roll and sheet forms. EVA Foams are Polyethylene based, while incorporating a component, up to 40%, of vinyl acetate. This additive adds elasticity and 'bounce' to the foam sheet giving the product a wider range of uses for both industrial and commercial purposes. Polyethylene and EVA Foams are flexible or semi-rigid, closed cell foams made from low density polyethylene (LDPE) bead material. Most industrial polyethylene foams are manufactured by LDPE bead expansion, followed by block moulding, or by extrusion of the liquid formulation through an oven where further expansion takes place to achieve the required sheet density. The expanded product is then cut to sheet length or rolled, as required. Polyethylene foam is renowned for its ability to bear up under pressure without losing its original form and cushioning properties, and to withstand elongation before breaking. These characteristics make it the ideal foam for applications where both support and durability are important. This elastic property of polyethylene, (which is even greater for EVA), combined with its non-abrasive, light weight, buoyancy, resistance to oils, solvents and chemical attack, odourless and affordability qualities, contribute to making polyethylene the world’s most popular and versatile thermoplastic polymer. Polyethylene foam products are durable, reusable and 100% recyclable where plastic recycling is available. A summary of th