Bayer MaterialScience LLC flexes its innovative muscle with a new polyurethane foam technology that enables the direct production of very high air flow foams comparable to those achieved through current processes. Enhanced air flow and the transfer of moisture away from the body are desirable traits in a number of end-use polyurethane foam applications, such as mattresses, cosmetic pads and lawn furniture. Most high porosity foams are produced by a chemical or mechanical reticulation process that involves an extra, post-step treatment to enhance the air flow. Using the new technology, foam manufacturers can more efficiently produce a variety of foams, including conventional, viscoelastic and several specialty types like hydrophilic or semi-rigid foams for specialty applications.
