Ethafoam
Description
[Dow Chemical Company] A registered trademark for a meta-Aramid fiber that was originally developed space program. Soft forms of Nomex are used for as a lining material in packing museum objects. Nomex can also be laminated then expanded to form the lightweight core in honeycomb structural boards.
Synonyms and Related Terms
aramid; meta-aramid; Nomex Softwrap; Nomex Gentle Wrap
Applications
- Lining cavities cut in foam
- Can be sewn and bonded with hot melt adhesives without melting
Personal Risks
Nomex SDS [[1]]
Environmental Risks
Collection Risks
May be susceptible to snagging on corners.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Resistant to acids, alkalis, bleaches and most solvents. Fiber is smooth. Permeable to air and moisture. Fiber cross section = dogbone. Fire resistant and self-extinguishing. Degrades in ultraviolet light.
| Melting Point | 370 |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.38 |
| Tenactiy | 5.3 g/denier (dry) |
| Elongation | 22% |
| Moisture regain | 3.5% |
Working Properties
The spunwoven version of Nomex is typically used in museum applications. It has the unique ability to stretch in one direction, preventing bunching and folding of loose material within a cavity (PACCIN).
Forms/Sizes
Forms include fibers, paper/fabric, felts, and rigid honeycomb boards. Flexible fabric typically comes rolls with widths of 39”. Thicknesses range from 3 to 30 mils.