Relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties of polyether block amide foams

The mechanical behaviors of five polyether block amide foams, obtained by mold-opening foam injection process, were investigated with regard to their microstructures. materials vary in mass ratios hard versus soft segments, and/or process packing time. resulting microstructures have been characterized terms cavity size and shape ratios, analyzing scanning electron microscope images after careful sample preparation. responses compression at small large strain. At strain, the initial linear part stress–strain curve is enhanced firstly segment ratio secondly fineness microstructure. Similar results viscoelasticity strain has stress relaxation recovery tests, relevant for applications. Reduced time pressure shown lead presence undesired cavities. morphological defects appear a negligible impact on macroscopic behavior foams infinitesimal but critical inconsistency Furthermore, tested controlled first segments ratio, second microstructure fineness.