What is the difference between EVA foam, EPE foam, and sponge foam

1. EVA Foam (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)

Features:

• Fine and uniform cell structure (smooth surface)
• High elasticity and toughness
• Good water resistance and durability
• Can be die-cut, heat-formed, laminated, or printed easily
• Density range: 30–300 kg/m³
• Waatea i roto i various colors and hardness levels

Typical Uses:

• Sports mats, yoga blocks, swimming belts
• Packaging inserts (high-end electronics, taputapu)
• Shoe soles, kneeling pads, toys

Pros: Smooth finish, mauroa, whakarite i, kore-paitini
Cons: Slightly more expensive than EPE

2. EPE Foam (Expanded Polyethylene)

Features:

• Lightweight with larger air bubbles / open cells
• Soft and flexible, excellent te horonga ohorere
• Water and chemical resistant
• Density range: 15–50 kg/m³

Typical Uses:

• Te takai (electronics, karaehe, utauta)
• Edge protectors, foam tubes, whakawetiweti

Pros: Low cost, good cushioning, reusable
Cons: Rougher surface, less firm than EVA, not suitable for precision cutting

3. Huka Hukarere (Polyurethane or PU Foam)

Features:

• Hanganga tuwhera-pūtau (soft and breathable)
• Very compressible and comfortable
• Absorbs water easily
• Density range: 10–60 kg/m³

Typical Uses:

• Seat cushions, sound absorption, cosmetic sponges
• Cleaning products, gaskets, hoe

Pros: Very soft, hāneanea, low cost
Cons: Absorbs water, poor durability outdoors, not suitable for heavy loads