Blowing agent

nounStandard termProduction

A chemical or physical additive that generates gas to create foam or cellular structures in plastics and rubbers.

This substance is mixed into a polymer melt where it decomposes or vaporizes to form gas bubbles. It creates the cellular structure in foam products like expanded polystyrene or polyurethane insulation. Engineers control the dosage and activation temperature to achieve the desired density and thermal properties in the final part.

Heard on the job

Check the hopper feed rate because we're getting short shots and I think the blowing agent is running out.