Everything about EVA
EVA stands for Ethylene Vinyl Acetate. It is a flexible and soft material that possesses similar properties to an elastomer. This material can be found in various forms. On this page, we are happy to provide more information about it.
On this page:
What is EVA?
EVA is a thermoplastic that is created through the polymerization of ethylene and vinyl acetate, resulting in a copolymer. This copolymer has properties similar to those of an elastomer, making it a flexible and soft material. EVA is classified as a "crosslinked" material, meaning that during the injection molding process, a chemical reaction occurs that forms strong bridges between the long polymer chains.
EVA is commonly found in powder, granulate, or sheet form. Granulate is used to make sheets and films, while the granules are processed to produce EVA foam. This involves grinding the granules, mixing them, injecting them into molds, and then foaming them. Adding a substance to the granules in a specific mold triggers a chemical reaction, resulting in EVA foam.
Which characteristics does EVA foam have?
EVA is one of the five most commonly used materials for making foam. EVA foam is very lightweight, soft, flexible, and elastic. The material has a closed-cell structure, making it waterproof, resistant to wear, and well-suited to withstand UV radiation and ozone. Additionally, this foam possesses good mechanical properties, allowing it to return to its original shape after compression. EVA foam also has anti-slip properties and is more durable than materials such as PE foam or rubber. It has the same properties on both the inside and outside, is non-toxic, easy to maintain, and resistant to scratching and biting.
EVA products from EKI
In which EKI products is EVA used?
The foam resulting from the chemical reaction is processed by EKI into sheets, strips, rings, blocks, mats, and other forms. We also offer the foam with an adhesive backing; see EKI 650 for details. All our products are of high quality and can be produced in standard sizes or custom-made. Our items are available in both large and small quantities and always have a short delivery time throughout Europe, regardless of the order size.
How is it applied?
EVA foam is a highly versatile material. Because it is resistant to scratching and biting, it is often found in environments where it comes into contact with (young) children, such as in playgrounds. This type of foam is also commonly used in child seats, toys, stroller wheels, solar panels, bag linings, shoe soles, and automotive interiors.
However, the foam sold by EKI is primarily used for industrial applications, such as shock absorption. Due to its excellent shock-absorbing properties, it is frequently used in foam mats, especially in sports settings. In addition to being a good shock absorber, the foam also serves effectively as insulation against heat, cold, and sound. Moreover, it is suitable for sealing window frames, doors, and glass in construction, as well as sealing joints with a small joint profile. Examples include partition walls and concrete pouring. The material is also used in boats, wellness centres, gardens, and swimming pools.
Frequently asked questions
Receiving advice on EVA?
Do you have questions about EVA or their application for your business? Please let us know using the form below. Our team of specialists will be happy to think along with you.
