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Low-temperature flex test method for soft foam coalescence materials

Abstract: 本文介绍了软质泡沫聚合材料在低温环境下的柔性测试方法。软质泡沫材料在低温下可能变脆,影响其性能。为确保其在实际应用中的可靠性和耐用性,本文依据GB/T2918-1998和GB/T6342-1996标准,介绍了一种低温柔性测试方法。测试过程中,将试样在规定低温环境下预处理,并围绕芯棒进行180°弯曲,观察是否发生破裂或损坏。该测试方法通过准确评估材料的低温柔性特性,为其在不同应用场景中的使用提供了重要依据。

Flexible foam polymer materials are used in a variety of applications, such as car seats, furniture upholstery and sports equipment. However, in some special cases, such as applications in low-temperature environments, these materials may be exposed to extreme conditions, so accurate testing of their low-temperature flexibility is critical. This article will introduce a standards-based low-temperature flexibility test method designed to evaluate the flexibility performance of flexible foam polymer materials in low-temperature environments to ensure their reliability and durability in practical applications.

Soft foam polymer material is a lightweight, soft and elastic material commonly used in the manufacture of seats, padding and cushioning materials. However, in low-temperature environments, these materials may become brittle and hard, losing their original softness, thus affecting their performance and functionality. Therefore, it is of great significance to accurately test the flexibility of flexible foam polymer materials under low temperature conditions.

Standard references

The low-temperature flexibility test method used in this article refers to relevant standards such as GB/T2918-1998 "Standard Environment for Condition Adjustment and Testing of Plastic Samples" and GB/T6342-1996 "Determination of Linear Dimensions of Foam Plastics and Rubber" to ensure that the test accuracy and reliability.

 Test principle

The principle of the low-temperature flexibility test is to place the sample under specified low-temperature conditions for a period of time, and then bend it 180° around the mandrel to observe the flexibility of the sample to reflect its performance characteristics in a low-temperature environment. During the test, if the sample is broken or damaged, it will be deemed to have failed the test.

 Test Instruments

Low Temperature Test Chamber: Provides a specified low temperature environment to ensure the accuracy and stability of the test temperature.

Mandrel: The diameter is approximately 4 times the thickness of the specimen, used to surround and bend the specimen.

Measuring tool: Complies with the regulations of GB/T6342-1996 and is used to measure the size of the sample.

Low Temperature Flexibility Test Method for Soft Foam Polymer Materials with Figure 1

Sample preparation

The specimen needs to be prepared using mechanical processing methods to ensure that its size meets the standard requirements and the surface is smooth and free of cracks. The recommended specimen size is a rectangular parallelepiped with dimensions of (150±10) mm x (50±10) mm x (10±1) mm.

Experimental procedure

  1. The sample needs to be placed under natural conditions for 72 hours and then adjusted to ensure that the sample state is stable and uniform during the test.

  2. The temperature of the Test Chamber is adjusted to the specified low temperature conditions, such as (-40±1)°C, (-55±1)°C or (-75±1)°C.

  3. Use measuring tools to measure the length, width and thickness of each sample in accordance with the method of GB/T6342-1996, in millimeters (mm).

  4. Place the sample in the low-Temperature Test Chamber and bend it 180° around the mandrel for about 2 to 3 seconds.

  5. Observe whether the sample is cracked or cracked, and record the test results of each sample.


According to the test results, record whether the sample passed the test and whether cracks or damage occurred. The test report shall include the test conditions, test results for each specimen, and a description of any deviations from the standard requirements. Through the complete test report, the flexibility performance of soft foam polymer materials in low temperature environments can be evaluated, providing a reliable basis for their selection and application in practical applications.


Low temperature flexibility testing is one of the important methods to evaluate the performance of flexible foam polymer materials in extreme environments. By using standardized testing methods, the flexibility characteristics of materials under low temperature conditions can be accurately evaluated, providing a reliable reference for the design and application of materials, thereby ensuring their reliability and durability in various application scenarios.