Handbook of Foaming and Blowing Agents

Foamed polymers have many beneficial properties, including lower density, high heat and sound insulation, and shock absorbency. Foamed plastic parts are now a ubiquitous part of everyday life – from food packaging to seat cushions.

As the application of foamed polymers expands and diversifies, a variety of foaming techniques and equipment are available to produce very diverse range of products. The methods of foaming are generally established, but very little is known and discussed about the composition of materials to be processed and additives enhancing foamed products and making the foam production more economical.

This book concentrates on the selection of additives for these diverse foaming processes which can be enhanced using available today, modern, chemical means to improve product quality, speed up the process, and broaden the range of products which can be produced using foaming technology.

In addition to providing useful guidance to assist practitioners in the more efficient and effective selection of foaming methods and blowing agents, the book also introduces useful analytical techniques for foaming, and thoroughly discusses the environmental impact of foaming processes.

• Introduces the fundamental mechanisms of action of blowing agents and foaming
• Includes best practice guidance to help engineers and technicians improve the efficiency of their existing foaming processes
• Enables practitioners to select blowing agents and foaming methods more effectively, reducing the risk of poor specification