Effect of Filler Size on Cell Nucleation during Foaming Process

Abstract

This work concerns the effects of the filler size on cell nucleation during the foaming process. The cell density of foams with fillers of two different sizes has been investigated using the foaming process simulator developed previously. It was found that the cell density is strongly affected by the filler size. Foams with a fine filler show a higher cell density at a high saturation pressure but give a lower cell density at a low saturation pressure. At a certain value of the saturation pressure, cell density becomes similar with both fillers. This transition pressure changes with the foaming condition. It goes down with a higher pressure drop rate.

The experimental results have been explained with an analysis off iller particle size distribution. The analysis also recommended a way to select filler size if a high cell density is desired in the foaming process.