Abstract: A method for the production of a polyether-urethane foam includes the step of incorporating into the foam-forming reaction mixture a degradation product of a starch and/or an acetyl, hydroxypropyl or oxidized derivative of a starch. This additive can be used to substitute up to 80% by weight of the polymeric polyol on which the foam formulation is based. The foams can be rigid, semi-rigid, semi-flexible or flexible and their physical and dynamic properties compare favorably with those of foams lacking the starch additive, while the production costs of the foams are significantly lowered.

Abstract: Method for the continuous production of a cylindrical block of reconstituted foam material. A charge of foam crumb (together with a binder) is placed in an open-ended mould, supported therein and compressed to a height of about one foot. The product is lowered from the mould and maintained relative thereto so as to provide a support to receive a further charge of foam crumb and binder. The further charge is compressed so that it unites with the first-mentioned charge. Further charges of crumb and binder are added, and the method-steps repeated, as often as necessary. An apparatus is provided in which the method may be performed.