Abstract: Method of producing a molded article of a foamed thermoplastic resin. A molten mass of an expandable thermoplastic resin is accumulated in an accumulator while it is prevented from foaming. A predetermined quantity of the accumulated thermoplastic resin is ejected rapidly from the accumulator into the atmosphere so that the thermoplastic resin commences foaming. The ejected thermoplastic resin is placed in a mold cavity before the foaming expansion has been completed and is compressed. The expansion and molding of the ejected thermoplastic resin is completed in the mold while controlling the compression pressure to obtain a foamed molded article.

Abstract: A method for pressurizing pre-foamed particles of a polyolefin resin by maintaining the pre-foamed particles in an atmosphere of a pressurized gas to impart a predetermined internal pressure thereto, which comprises first maintaining the particles under a pressure which does not cause shrinkage to the particles, and then increasing the applied pressure gradually under conditions which do not cause shrinkage to the particles.

Abstract: A photocurable composition comprising the reaction product of the addition compound obtained from an epoxy resin and a photopolymerizable .alpha..beta.-unsaturated carboxylic acid, and a dibasic acid anhydride; a photopolymerizable monomer; and a photopolymerization initiator. The composition is used for making a relief image.