What makes Ecocell® different from traditional Chemical Foaming Agents?
There are three features of Ecocell® that make this product different than present day foaming agent technology.
Formula: The ingredients used in Ecocell® are different than those used in all the conventional endothermic and exothermic foaming agents. The by-products are different, there is less water given off upon activation, and the pH is neutral.
Cell Size: The cell size of Ecocell® is typically in the range of 100 microns allowing it to be used in processes where conventional endothermics fall short. The larger cells produced by traditional CFAs have a greater negative effect on appearance, printability, draw down and physical properties. Parts made with Ecocell® are smoother, more opaque, have greater draw down potential and retain physical properties better than conventional systems.
Activation: Ecocell® has only one activation point whereas conventional endothermics have two. Ecocell’s® reaction occurs at 393˚F (200˚C) and matches well to the processing temperatures for the polymers it is intended to be used with. Conventional endothermics have two activation points; one at approximately 320°F (160°C) and another at approximately 395°F (201°C). The first activation emperature usually causes pre-expansion, loss of gas, large cells and cell collapse.