What is polyurethane foam?
A polyurethane is a polymer consisting of organic units that are joined by urethane 'links'. A polyurethane foam has the same chemistry but is expanded during the manufacturing process to form a cellular polyurethane.
What is foam density?
The density of any material is its mass divided by its volume. In the case of polyurethane foam, a foam of relatively high density will have more polyurethane material per m3 and therefore is likely to offer better support and resistance to losses in properties such as hardness, resilience and height over periods of time.
What is foam hardness?
In terms of polyurethane foam testing, it is the amount of force required to compress a standards test sample by 40% and is expressed in Newtons (N). With a relationship between density and hardness, it is this property that is most likely 'felt' by the consumer when sitting on a cushion or lying on a mattress.
How do I know the foam meets UK furniture and bedding flammability regulations?
It is a legal requirement that the polyurethane foam produced for use in domestic furniture in the UK must comply with Schedule 1, Part 1 of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988 (and 1989, 1993). Vita takes its responsibility in relation to this regulation very seriously. In order to achieve compliance, no block of combustion modified foam is released for sale until an in–house test confirms compliance to the regulations.