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An Overview of Polyurethane Foams for Medical Applications

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As a manufacturer of medical products, your pursuit of innovative materials that offer high functionality is crucial. To assist you in exploring the features and benefits of foams ideal for medical applications, we provide an overview of viscoelastic and high-resiliency polyurethane foams, along with the advantages of antimicrobial and biodegradable options.

Viscoelastic Foam: With delayed resilience and variable density, viscoelastic foam conforms to the body’s shape, providing even weight distribution and returning to its original shape after compression. Its unique properties make it ideal for pressure relief and support surfaces, such as wheelchair cushions, orthopedic supports and braces, and prosthetic liners. The low resilience of viscoelastic foam ensures better pressure absorption and distribution, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers.

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Antimicrobial Foam: Featuring additives that inhibit bacterial and fungal growth, antimicrobial foam is perfect for moisture-prone applications where traditional foams would be susceptible to microbial growth. As a leading U.S. manufacturer, we offer custom viscoelastic and HR antimicrobial foam formulations. These foams maintain effectiveness through multiple uses and extended periods, reducing infection risk and preventing odor caused by bacterial growth. Common applications include casts, surgical padding, positioners, and prosthetics.

Biodegradable Foam: Offering an eco-friendly alternative, biodegradable foam combines superior cushioning and shock absorption properties with the ability to decompose naturally. Suitable for both durable and disposable medical padding, seat cushions, and electronics, biodegradable foam retains the outstanding mechanical properties of viscoelastic polyurethane foam while decomposing in landfills. Ideal for single-use medical products and protective cushions, these foams undergo decomposition through bacterial and fungal activity in landfill soil, significantly reducing waste.

Our biodegradable foams have undergone independent laboratory testing, adhering to ASTM’s D5511 standard for anaerobic biodegradation of plastic materials. The results confirm that our patent pending biodegradable foams offer an eco-friendly solution compared to traditional foams.

Whether your application requires the durability of polyurethane foam, the pressure distribution of viscoelastic foam, the microbial resistance of antimicrobial foam, or the sustainability of biodegradable foam, we can provide the ideal solution. Our experienced industry professionals and our manufacturing capabilities (ISO 9001:2015) are ready to guide you in formulating the perfect foam for your specific needs.