Minicel
Description
[Volek] A registered trademark for a cross-linked Polyethylene foam manufactured by Sekisui Voltek, LLC. Like polyethylene foams, cross-linked polyethylene foams are durable and chemically stable, but are typically finer celled. [1] Minicel is a closed cell foam. It is an extremely fine-celled bun foam that has a smooth, consistent surface. Minicel has a tough and firm, yet elastic feel. [2] Minicel has good thermal insulation, strength and shock absorption. It is impervious to mildew, mold, rot, and bacteria, as well as chemical resistance. Standard colors are natural-white and black. Minicel is very buoyant and is commonly used in water recreation devices such as kayaks. [3]
Synonyms and Related Terms
Polyethylene foam; crosslinked polyethylene foam; XLPE foam; X-linked PE foam; Volara
Applications
- Art handling
- Storage
- Transport: shock absorption and cushioning
Personal Risks
Sekisui Voltek: SDS
All Minicel products are non-toxic and contain no CFC, HCFC, or hydrocarbon blowing agents. [4]
Collection Risks
Stable. Minnesota Historical Society says, “Can be used” (MWG 2020).
Environmental Risks
Physical and Chemical Properties
| Form | Solid, in various forms |
|---|---|
| Odor | Light |
| Melting Point | PE foam: 90-115°C |
| Solubility in/miscibility with water | Insoluble |
Working Properties
Forms and Sizes
Information below from PACCIN: PolyPlank Polyethylene Foam.
The most common in art handling is PolyPlank LAM 220, with a relatively medium density of 2.2 lbs/ft^3 in a 2” natural tint(white) sheets at 108x48” or 108x24” planks.
Other Sizes and Densities
Laminated units are available in the following densities:
- PolyPlank LAM090 = 0.9 pcf
- PolyPlank LAM120 = 1.2 pcf
- PolyPlank LAM170 = 1.7 pcf
- PolyPlank LAM220 = 2.2 pcf
They are typically manufactured in 1/2" - 3" thicknesses, and 108 x 48" sheets, but other dimensions can be custom ordered.
PolyPlank EXT is the same formula as PolyPlank LAM, but extruded in one piece rather than laminated, and at a slightly higher price. It is available in the following densities:
- PolyPlank EXT170 = 1.7 pcf
- PolyPlank EXT220 = 2.2 pcf
- PolyPlank EXT400 = 4.0 pcf
- PolyPlank EXT600 = 6.0 pcf
- PolyPlank EXT900 = 9.0 pcf
They are typically manufactured in 2 x 108 x 24" planks, but other dimensions may be available for custom order.
Other Variations
PolyPlank LEL is formulated with less than 10% LEL (low explosive limit) VOC, which meets military and other low residual blowing agent specifications.
PolyPlank Renew is made with 40%-60% pre-consumer recycled material.
PolyPlank SFT is formulated with finer cells for a softer surface texture.
PolyPlank Plus is a custom-ordered system of laminating foam with a variety of substrates, including foil, bubble, adhesive and cohesive films, paper, non-wovens, etc
Additional Information
Pregis PolyPlank Website
Resources and Citations
- Kaela Nurmi, contributed information, MWG group, 2020.