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In the world of material and industrial production, sponges play an important role as materials that provide comfort, insulation or protection in different applications. Among various types of sponge, special attention is paid to PVC foam, Poron, Basotect, PE, and PUR sponges. Those special types of sponges offer unique characteristics and performance that make them essential in many industries, including construction industry, automotive industry, electronics, and many others. We will now proceed to inspect these materials and their applications so that we could understand better their importance and the advantages that they offer.

PVC foam is a durable material with a wide application

When we write about materials that offer versatility with excellent performance, PVC foam is one of the best choices. Polyvinyl chloride foams are special types of sponges known for their extremely wide range of applications. This lightweight, closed-cell foam is engineered to create air-filled pockets within the material, resulting in its characteristic sponge-like structure. The closed-cell nature of PVC foam contributes to its high buoyancy, excellent insulating properties and resistance to water absorption.

  • Strength and durability: despite being very light, PVC foam is extremely strong, durable and long-lasting
  • Thermal insulation and soundproofing: this foam is an excellent heat and sound insulator. It is effective in reducing noise in different environments
  • Resilience on the chemicals: it is resistant to a wide array of chemicals, which makes it useful in industrial applications
  • Resilience on the water: the closed structure of this material makes it effective in preventing absorption of water, so it is ideal for use on the water
  • Versatility: PVC foam can easily be shaped and produced in accordance with specific design requests

Where PVC foam is used

PVC foam is used for insulation, soundproofing, window profiles, and decorative elements in the construction industry. The waterproof properties of the foam make it ideal for building boats and marine accessories. Panels made of PVC foam are fire-resistant. It is able to withstand heat, vibration, noise and light.

  • Insulation: PVC foam is often used for insulation and sealing in construction. It provides thermal insulation, sound absorption and weather resistance, making it suitable for installation on windows, doors, roofs, and HVAC systems.
  • Furniture: It is also used in the production of furniture for upholstery, cushions and upholstery. First of all, because it is comfortable, but resistant and durable, it is an ideal component for sofas, chairs, mattresses, and car seats.
  • Marine industry: PVC foam is widespread in the marine industry in boat building and yacht manufacturing. Its structure makes it a floating material resistant to water absorption.
  • Packaging: This foam is also used in packaging to protect fragile items during transport and handling.
  • Advertisements: It is also popular in the advertising industry. It is commonly used to make lightweight and durable signs, display panels and 3D signs.
  • PVC Foils: They are easy to cut and shape, so they are suitable for making models, sculpting, as well as for making props and various other creative things.

PVC foam saves us from noise

PVC foam is widely used in the automotive industry, in the production of interior insulation components such as door panels, dashboard covers, armrests, and seat parts. Its excellent cushioning and insulation properties make it suitable for increasing comfort and reducing noise and vibrations inside the vehicle cabin. It effectively prevents the ingress of water, dust, and noise. It is also used in various car safety components to absorb shocks and improve crash resistance.

Poron, resistant to shock and compression

Poron is a type of high-performance urethane foam known for its exceptional cushioning and shock absorption. It is used in various types of industries. It is made from open-cell polyurethane and designed to provide excellent compression resistance, meaning it can retain its original shape and cushioning properties even after repeated compressions. This makes it very durable and long-lasting.

Additional treatments or coatings can be applied to Poron to improve its fire resistance. This may include the addition of flame retardant additives or the use of specialized coatings that provide a protective flame barrier. Thus, the Poron becomes flame resistant.

The unique properties of Poron

The unique cellular structure of this foam allows it to quickly return to its original shape after being hit or squeezed, providing excellent energy absorption.

  • Electronics industry: Provides cushioning, shock absorption and vibration protection in electronic devices and components. It can be found in smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices.
  • Footwear: Poron foam is used in shoe insoles and inserts to improve comfort, reduce shock on joints and provide good cushioning. It can help relieve foot fatigue, but also shocks while walking or running.
  • Automotive: Poron foam is used on automotive parts such as gaskets and various interior components.
  • Medicine and health care: It is also used in health equipment, such as orthopedic aids. It is used for shock absorption, padding and pressure redistribution in products such as prosthetics, braces and wound care dressings.
  • Industry: Poron is used in various industries for shock protection and as a good insulator. It can be found on the various industrial machines.

Basotect PVC foam: The best audible insulator

Sponge foam Basotect stands out from the similar conventional material by its good acoustic, but also thermal insulation. Whether it’s about production car and airplanes, about concert halls or offices, Basotect foam absorbs sounds waves, thus providing a quieter and more comfortable space.

It is made of melamine resin, a duroplastic synthetic material. It is a thermosetting polymer known for its excellent heat resistance. This sponge has the ability to self-extinguish, thus minimizing the risk of fire spreading. It can withstand exposure to a variety of chemicals without degradation, ensuring long-lasting performance.

The features of Basotect foam

The characteristic mesh-like structure of Basotect foam consists of a three-dimensional structure of high porosity with open cells. Interconnected cells allow excellent air flow making Basotect foam very effective in absorbing acoustics. Sound waves, as well as heat, penetrate and dissipate within the foam.

The mesh-like structure contributes to this foam being light and flexible, i.e. easy to shape.

It is often used for soundproofing busy places such as restaurants, hotels, office buildings, and airplanes. However, with simple processing, this material also serves as an excellent thermal insulator. Due to its fine structure, it is also good for cleaning, it perfectly collects dirt even from the most complicated surfaces that need cleaning.

Basotect foam is known for its exceptional thermal stability and can withstand temperatures up to approximately 240 degrees Celsius, while on the other hand it is a very good thermal insulation and is stable up to -196 degrees Celsius. It is extremely flexible, even at very low temperatures.

Antistatic sponges: Protectors of electrical devices

Antistatic PE sponge is a versatile material that is most often used to protect electronic devices during transport. It is made of polyethylene, a light and flexible plastic known for its excellent electrical properties. The sponge is engineered to have anti-static properties, meaning it prevents the build-up and discharge of static electricity, which can cause irreparable damage to sensitive electronic components.

Antistatic PE sponge has several advantages when it comes to protecting electronic devices. First, it provides cushioning and shock absorption, minimizing the shock of external forces during transit. In addition, it acts as a barrier against dust and dirt, preventing their accumulation on the surface of the device.

Similar to the anti-static PE sponge, the anti-static PUR sponge is designed to protect electronic devices during transport. It consists of polyurethane, a durable and elastic material. The anti-static formula ensures that the sponge effectively dissipates static charges, keeping electronic components safe from electrostatic discharge (ESD).

And the antistatic PUR sponge has its advantages when protecting the device. Its solid construction makes it wear-resistant, long-lasting and reliable. What’s more, the sponge has amazing absorption capabilities, it will do a great job of soaking up any accidental spills or leaks that may occur.

Antistatic PE sponges are made from polyethylene, a thermoplastic polymer known for its lightweight and flexible nature. On the other hand, antistatic PUR sponges consist of polyurethane, a more robust and resistant material. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the device and the required level of protection.

Electrical conductivity of antistatic sponges

Antistatic PE sponges have inherent antistatic properties that allow them to effectively dissipate static charges. These sponges have a low surface resistance, preventing the build-up of static electricity and reducing the risk of ESD. Antistatic PUR sponges also possess similar antistatic properties, providing a safe environment for electronic devices.

Durability and lifespan

Antistatic PE sponges are relatively softer and more pliable, making them suitable for devices that require gentle cushioning. They are resistant to moderate wear and tear. Anti-static PUR sponges, on the other hand, are more resilient, making them ideal for devices that can be handled roughly and may suffer heavy shocks during transport.

Absorption capacity

When it comes to spills or leaks, antistatic PUR sponges have a higher absorption capacity compared to antistatic PE sponges. This is especially useful in situations where there is a risk of liquid coming into contact with electronic devices.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Prevention

One of the primary functions of antistatic sponges is to prevent electrostatic discharge. When electronic devices come into contact with other materials or surfaces, static electricity can build up. Those charges can lead to ESD, which can cause irreversible damage to sensitive components. Anti-static sponges help dissipate these charges, ensuring devices remain safe from ESD.