Progress in the development of bead foams – A review

For a long time, the number of available bead foam variants limited to standard polymers which restricted their functionality mainly packaging, thermal insulation (e.g. in construction) and shock absorption transportation). In particular, such as expanded polystyrene, polyethylene polypropylene were used for components requiring good insulating properties high energy at low cost. Mainly since last two decades, new polymer have found way into world foams are currently adding further functionalities, sustainability, flame retardancy, increased stability enhanced mechanical performance improvements impact resistance). Versatile fields application open up, revolutionizing both industry design sectors. This review article emphasizes special development progress processing technologies. Upcoming opportunities digital methods modelling simulation highlighted.