Components of Memory Foam

Polyols

• Considered to be the foam formulation’s foundation, polyols are compounds, which all of the other essential components bind to make the foam flexible. A special class of polyol is typically utilized in elastomer applications and high-performance coating. Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene is typically utilized in producing polyurethane.

Toluene di-isocyanate (TDI)

• TDI is usually used in combination with polyester polyols and polyether to make memory foams flexible. This synthetic chemical has been designated by the OSHA, the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, EPA, the International Cancer Research Agency and the National Toxicology Program as a carcinogen.

Amine Catalysts

• Another component of memory foam is amine, which is a compound that contains a basic nitrogen atom that has a lone pair. Traditional amine catalysts are combined with polyols to give memory foams high curability. Most memory foams are fabricated with the aid of at least one catalyst to enable foam cells to have enough strength to keep their structure.

Flame Retardants

• Memory foam manufacturers make use of flame retardants because of the high combustion rating of typical foam mattresses. Fire retardants that are being used on memory foams are DBDE, boric acid, melamine, vinylidiene and antimony trioxide.

Surfactants

• Surfactants are utilized to stabilize the foam’s cell structure and blend the liquid components. Surfactants are also helpful in regulating foam cell size and in preventing sub-surface voids. In the absence of surfactants, such foaming system will meet catastrophic coalescence and can cause foam collapse in the long run.

Dyes

• To complete the formulations, dyes are mixed with polyols and other materials to meet performance standards.