New developments in polymer science lead to ultra low density closed cell EPDM sponge extrusion
by Jon Cutler, Bhawan Patel and Adam Self, SPC
It has long been established that unvulcanized solid elastomer compounds can be expanded to sponge forms by the incorporation into the formulation of thermally activated gas releasing chemicals known as blowing agents. During controlled heating of the compound, there is molecular dissociation of these blowing agents, and this is often designed to occur in conjunction with the onset of vulcanization of the compound, enabling the production of a range of sponge structures. This article discusses progressive ideas for the design, mixing and production of superior closed cell EPDM sponge compounds in order to create ultra low density, lightweight sponge solutions.