Extrusion Foaming System for Fabricating Open-Cell Structure of Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

Abstract

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) foam of open-cell type was manufactured through extrusion foaming system using a physical blowing agent for the application of sound absorption. For the purpose of enhancing the open cell content, salt powder was blended with LDPE changing the content and particle size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was carried out in order to observe the cell morphology. With a view to characterizing the open-cell structure, open-cell content and expansion ratio were measured with extruded foams. Finally the effect of formulation and processing parameters on cell morphology was investigated.