At Rocon Foam, we understand that material innovation is at the heart of modern manufacturing. One such innovation—reticulated foam—is setting new standards for performance, efficiency, and sustainability across a wide range of industries.
Whether you need high-performance filtration, sound absorption, or custom-engineered components, reticulated foam’s unique structure and capabilities make it a go-to material for manufacturers aiming to improve product quality and reduce waste.
What Is Reticulated Foam?
Reticulated foam is an open-cell foam that has undergone a special post-processing technique to remove its window membranes. The result? A skeletal foam structure with a high degree of porosity—ideal for applications requiring airflow, fluid transfer, or precision filtration.
At Rocon Foam, we supply reticulated polyurethane and polyester foams in various pore sizes (measured in PPI – pores per inch), each tailored to meet specific technical demands.
Key Benefits of Reticulated Foam in Manufacturing
1. Superior Filtration Capabilities
With an open, uniform cell structure, reticulated foam enables controlled filtration of air, liquids, and particles. It’s widely used in:
- HVAC systems
- Automotive intake filters
- Medical devices
- Aquarium and pond filters
This lightweight, washable material can be shaped to precise specifications, offering both reliability and longevity in demanding environments.
2. Customisable Pore Sizes
At Rocon Foam, we offer reticulated foams ranging from 10 to 100 PPI, allowing for detailed control over performance. This makes it ideal for applications where airflow or fluid flow needs to be regulated without compromising on durability or weight.
3. Excellent Acoustic Performance
The structure of reticulated foam makes it a powerful sound absorption solution. It’s used in:
- Acoustic insulation panels
- Soundproofing enclosures
- Appliance noise control
By disrupting sound waves and minimising echoes, it supports quieter, more comfortable environments—perfect for both industrial and commercial settings.
4. Lightweight and Flexible
Despite its structural integrity, reticulated foam remains incredibly lightweight. This allows for easier handling, reduced shipping costs, and faster production times. It can also be die-cut, laminated, or bonded, offering extensive versatility in manufacturing processes.
5. Chemical and UV Resistance
For applications where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or sunlight is expected, our polyester-based reticulated foam performs exceptionally well. It’s frequently used in gaskets, seals, and technical filters for demanding environments.
6. Sustainability and Recyclability
As sustainability becomes a critical manufacturing objective, reticulated foam offers advantages. At Rocon Foam, we prioritise low-waste production, and many of our foam products are recyclable. Their long product life also means fewer replacements—reducing environmental impact over time.
Why Choose Rocon Foam as Your Reticulated Foam Supplier?
With over four decades of expertise in foam innovation, Rocon Foam is proud to be a trusted UK-based reticulated foam supplier. We deliver:
- Custom-cut solutions using advanced fabrication methods
- A wide range of pore sizes, densities, and thicknesses
- Fast turnaround and reliable delivery
- In-house technical support and material guidance
Whether you’re prototyping or scaling for production, we’ll help you specify the right reticulated foam for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between open-cell and reticulated foam?
A1: Reticulated foam is a type of open-cell foam that has had its cell membranes removed, leaving behind a skeletal framework. This improves airflow and makes it ideal for filtration and acoustic absorption.
Q2: Can reticulated foam be used for liquids?
A2: Yes, its open structure allows for fluid filtration, drainage, and moisture management in medical and industrial applications.
Q3: Is reticulated foam flame-retardant?
A3: Reticulated foam can be treated with flame-retardant additives to meet specific fire safety standards. Speak to our team about compliant options.
Q4: What PPI should I use for filtration?
A4: Lower PPI (10–30) is suitable for coarse filtration or airflow; higher PPI (45–100) offers finer filtration. We can advise based on your product’s performance requirements.
Q5: Do you offer custom shapes or thicknesses?
A5: Absolutely. At Rocon Foam, we offer bespoke cutting, laminating, and foam conversion services for every application.
Let’s Talk Foam Innovation
Reticulated foam isn’t just a product—it’s a performance-enhancing material that drives innovation across industries. If you’re looking for a reticulated foam supplier that understands your business and your technical needs, get in touch with Rocon Foam today.
📞 Call us on 0121 520 6345
📧 Email: sales@roconfoam.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.roconfoam.co.uk/reticulated-foam