This paper reviews the production and properties of ethylene homo and copolymer foams with densities less than 50 kg/m3. A brief historical summary is given followed by a discussion of six key parameters as they relate to the properties and form of the foam. The diversity of the manufacturing processes available for foam production is illustrated by three distinct operating techniques. Stress strain curves are used to demonstrate the wide spectrum of properties obtainable and examples of applications are quoted.
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