Abstract: Methods, associated products and apparatus are described for the production of biodegradable foam products using a controlled pressure increase due to compressed air and a controlled pressure decrease in pressure as key variables during a microwave heating cycle to produce a foamed product. The biodegradable product formed has improved characteristics including a density from 10 to 100 kg/m3; a soft and resilient structure; cushioning G-value characteristics to cushion an object with a fragility of 15 to 115; and a surface abrasion comparable to polystyrene.

Abstract: Methods, associated products and apparatus are described for the production of biodegradable foam products using a controlled pressure increase due to compressed air and a controlled pressure decrease in pressure as key variables during a microwave heating cycle to produce a foamed product. The biodegradable product formed has improved characteristics including a density from 10 to 100 kg/m3; a soft and resilient structure; cushioning G-value characteristics to cushion an object with a fragility of 15 to 115; and a surface abrasion comparable to polystyrene.

Abstract: A method for the production of a biodegradable foamed product 7 from a base material and a blowing agent 1. The base materials are mixed with a blowing agent and any other required additives 1. The mixture 3, after extrusion 2, is placed in a microwave transparent mold 6 and processed in a microwave via distinct steps. The first step preheats the extrudate to a temperature just below the flash point 6. The second step 7 rapidly heats the extrudate beyond the flash point causing the extrudate to foam in the mold 7. By utilizing this method it is possible to produce shaped articles with uniform properties and with packaging properties such as compressibility, resilience and shock absorption.

Abstract: The method provided produces a bio-degradable foamed material with qualities of uniformity of mechanical and physical properties throughout the product including a foam thickness of up to one meter and a finished foam surface suitable for packaging applications. The parameters for producing such a product are selected from a range of variables which includes wall thickness, mold material, use of a susceptor and the type and composition of a susceptor, the number and arrangement of magnetrons and mold shape. Complex shapes produced by the process are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for the production of a biodegradable foamed product 7 from a base material and a blowing agent 1. The base materials are mixed with a blowing agent and any other required additives 1. The mixture 3, after extrusion 2, is placed in a microwave transparent mold 6 and processed in a microwave via distinct steps. The first step preheats the extrudate to a temperature just below the flash point 6. The second step 7 rapidly heats the extrudate beyond the flash point causing the extrudate to foam in the mold 7. By utilizing this method it is possible to produce shaped articles with uniform properties and with packaging properties such as compressibility, resilience and shock absorption.