Impact absorbing foam

摘要

This invention relates to impact absorbing foams. These foams comprise a polymeric foam and ceramic particulates dispersing the foam. These foams have numerous uses, including, for example, as interior pads for football helmets, and the like, for reducing head injuries.

主权项

1. An impact absorbing foam comprising:
a polymeric foam; and ceramic particulates dispersed in the polymeric foam; wherein the ceramic particulates have an average diameter in the range from about 1 to about 400 microns and a crushing strength in the range from about 100 to about 2,000,000 psi; wherein the ceramic particulates comprise a frangible material such that at least some of the ceramic particulates are crushed when impact energy is delivered to the foam, thereby providing an energy absorbing effect; wherein the ceramic particulates comprise alumino-silicate hollow spheres coated with sodium silicate; and wherein the impact absorbing foam comprises gas bubbles and/or void spaces that provide the impact absorbing foam with a volumetric expansion in the range from about 50% to about 400%.