Abstract: An antimicrobial foam includes an open-cell foam in a foam matrix defining a plurality of interconnected bubbles therein. Silver nanoparticles are suspended within the foam matrix. The foam matrix may be made from polyether polyurethane, polyester polyurethane, polycarbonate, thermoplastic olefin, thermoplastic elastomer, and thermoplastic polyurethane. The silver nanoparticles may have an average size between about 5 and 100 nanometers. The silver nanoparticles may be incorporated into the foam matrix in a concentration of between about 0.01 weight-% and about 0.20 weight-%. A method of manufacture of the foam also is described.

Abstract: An antimicrobial foam includes an open-cell foam in a foam matrix defining a plurality of interconnected bubbles therein. Silver nanoparticles are suspended within the foam matrix. The foam matrix may be made from polyether polyurethane, polyester polyurethane, polycarbonate, thermoplastic olefin, thermoplastic elastomer, and thermoplastic polyurethane. The silver nanoparticles may have an average size between about 5 and 100 nanometers. The silver nanoparticles may be incorporated into the foam matrix in a concentration of between about 0.01 weight-% and about 0.20 weight-%. A method of manufacture of the foam also is described.

Abstract: A foam insert is adapted for use in combination with a pressure vessel. The cylinder is made of an open cell foam and is sized to fit within the pressure vessel. The cylinder has a top portion and a bottom portion that correspond to a top and bottom of the pressure vessel. The top portion of the foam cylinder has a concave recess.