This series will be adding terms to our “Glossary of Foam”, which will be available as a downloadable reference in the future. Today, we’re going to look at some terms that define and measure specific properties of foam. In these posts, we’ll go into additional detail for each term.
Airflow
Definition:
Airflow is standard measure of how much air can pass through a 2”x2”x1” piece of foam in a minute. The standard unit is “cubic feet per minute.
Airflow is of particular importance in reference to “filter foam”, of which a common example is reticulated foam, pictured below.
Breathability
Definition:
Breathability is related to airflow, but it is the ability to pass water vapor across a piece of foam.
Cell Count
Definition:
The total count of cells per lineal inch or centimeter.
Density
Definition:
The weight of a specific volume of foam. Often expressed as “pounds per cubic foot”.
Durability
Definition:
A measure of a foam’s ability to retain its’ original properties [support, shape, etc] over time and use. This is particularly important to consider when selecting a foam for use in upholstery or any repeated-use scenario over extended time periods.
Elongation
Definition:
The degree to which a foam can be stretched before tearing or breaking. As a contrast, polyurethane foams [PU] are often foldable, whereas polystyrene foams [EPS] are often brittle, as seen below.
Make sure to stop back soon for Issue 2!