The prediction of the tensile properties of flexible foams

An idealized model for flexible foam in tension is developed. The model includes large deformations and cell structure orientation before and after deformation. It is predicted that two quantities affect the initial modulus of an unoriented foam: the density and a cell structure parameter. Data for latex foam show that the model correctly predicts the initial tensile modulus. The model also predicts that cell structure orientation is a reasonable method for achieving a desired modulus without altering the density.