You’re looking at something that’s dense, a bit squishy, but takes effort to compress. That puts it ptobably in the category of either XLPE or EVA foam.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
Smooth outside, super fine closed-cell texture
Somewhat difficult to compress, bounces back fast
Used in stuff like Pelican case inserts, insulation, flotation pads
Basically waterproof, holds up well to abuse
EVA Foam
Slightly softer and more flexible than XLPE
Still dense, but easier to push in
Shows up in gym mats, cosplay armor, cheap padding, shoe soles
More likely to soak up a little moisture if submerged
How to Tell Them Apart
Thing to Check
XLPE
EVA
Texture
Finer, more uniform
A bit more irregular
Surface Feel
Smooth, maybe a little glossy
Matte, slight texture
Water Resistance
Almost totally waterproof
Mostly, but not quite as good
Squish Factor
Firm, takes effort
Softer, more give
Nail Press Test
Barely leaves a mark
Leaves a temporary dent
Quick DIY Tests
Water dunk: If it stays dry, probably XLPE. If it soaks even a little, probably EVA.
Fingernail press: XLPE resists. EVA gives in for a second.
If you know what this piece came from (like a shipping insert, exercise mat, insulation panel) that can help narrow it down even more. Let me know and I will give it a shot.
this is my emotional support styrofoam box (it's been in my kitchen for 8 months now, there actually isnt any reason reason to keep it since the styrofoam box in my office is perfectly fine as well)
12 replies
Do what now?
Can you describe the foam?
See? The plain white ones are gigantic in size, wouldn't find them easily, and the black one seems line one of a kind!
Black looks like an open cell dense foam. Is it squishy?
Can be squished a little bit with force.
This Black Foam is what foam?
You’re looking at something that’s dense, a bit squishy, but takes effort to compress. That puts it ptobably in the category of either XLPE or EVA foam.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
EVA Foam
How to Tell Them Apart
Quick DIY Tests
If you know what this piece came from (like a shipping insert, exercise mat, insulation panel) that can help narrow it down even more. Let me know and I will give it a shot.
thanks, sounds like XLPE, then! Big glass pieces were shipped with it.
Yep. XLPE is good foam for repurposing.
i clean & keep high quality disposable containers and packaging for at least a month before considering disposing of them.
this is my emotional support styrofoam box (it's been in my kitchen for 8 months now, there actually isnt any reason reason to keep it since the styrofoam box in my office is perfectly fine as well)
omg, would keep forever!
How much do you need it?
You might be able to recreate it with grocery bags and spray foam.