| Ipropathi | I-Eva foam | EPE Foam | I-Sponge Foam (PU) |
|---|
| Surface | Zigudileyo & fine | Rougher | Ithambile, porous |
| Density range (kg / m³) | 30–300 | 15–50 | 10–60 |
| Water absorption | None | Very low | High |
| Elasticity | High | Medium | Very high (ithambile) |
| Ukuqina | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Common uses | Ezemidlalo, ukupakisha, toys | I-cushioing, ukhuseleko | Furniture, cleaning |
1. I-Eva foam (I-Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
Iimbonakalo:
- Fine and uniform cell structure (indawo egudileyo)
- High elasticity and toughness
- Good water resistance and durability
- Can be Ukusika, Ubushushu, laminated, okanye iprintwe easily
- Density range: 30–300 kg/m³
- Ifumaneka ngaphakathi various colors and hardness levels
Typical Uses:
- Sports mats, yoga blocks, swimming belts
- Packaging inserts (high-end electronics, izixhobo)
- Shoe soles, kneeling pads, toys
Pros: Smooth finish, hlalani, ngokuqinisekileyo, enganetyhefu
Cons: Slightly more expensive than EPE
2. EPE Foam (Expanded Polyethylene)
Iimbonakalo:
- Lightweight with larger air bubbles / open cells
- Soft and flexible, excellent ukufunxa
- Water and chemical resistant
- Density range: 15–50 kg/m³
Typical Uses:
- Ukupakisha (i-elektroniki, glass, ifenitshala)
- Edge protectors, foam tubes, ukufakwa
Pros: Low cost, good cushioning, iphinde isebenze
Cons: Rougher surface, less firm than EVA, not suitable for precision cutting
3. I-Sponge Foam (Polyurethane or PU Foam)
Iimbonakalo:
- Ulwakhiwo lweseli evulekileyo (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, padding
Pros: Very soft, comfortable, low cost
Cons: Absorbs water, poor durability outdoors, not suitable for heavy loads