Foam testing services are essential for manufacturers facing strict compliance demands, uncertain product durability, and evolving quality standards. At Element, we help you overcome these challenges with independent, expert testing of foam materials and components. From ASTM D3574 compliance to long-term performance validation, we deliver reliable data that supports confident decision-making and ensures your products meet regulatory and customer expectations.
What is foam testing at Element?
Foam testing is the scientific evaluation of the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of foam materials to determine their performance, durability, and regulatory compliance. At Element, we test flexible polyurethane foams and other cellular materials to ASTM D3574 and related standards. We provide precise, repeatable data for both standalone foam materials and complete products, supporting your R&D, quality control, compliance, and product optimization.
What can Element offer you for foam testing?
Components and materials we test
We test all types of flexible cellular materials, with particular expertise in urethane foams used in mattress and furniture applications. Our testing capabilities cover slab, bonded, and molded urethane foams, both as standalone materials and as part of complete products.
Key tests offered
We can evaluate foam by itself, or as part of a complete product evaluation or in association with product flammability testing or product durability testing.
Tests we offer include:
- Density - Determines the weight (mass) of a specific volume of foam. Commonly reported at lbs/ft3.
- Indentation Force Deflection - Evaluation of the firmness of the foam, and the support provided, at 25% compression, 65% compression, or others.
- Compression Set - Evaluation of the thickness recovery of foam after exposure to time and temperature in a compressed state.
- Tensile Strength - Measures the tensile breaking strength and elongation of foam specimens.
- Tear Resistance - Determines propensity to continue a tear.
- Resilience (Ball Rebound) Test - Measures the rebound height of a steel ball dropped onto the surface.
- Durability and Fatigue Testing - Various fatigue tests are used to evaluate the thickness change.
- Accelerated Aging - Various accelerated aging exposures are used to determine the change in material properties
Methods and solutions offered
We provide comprehensive testing solutions aligned with ASTM D3574 and other industry standards. Our services include both individual property testing and complete product evaluations, with specialized expertise in mattress and furniture industry requirements.
Your Challenges, Our Solutions
your testing partner
Regulatory Compliance Complexity
Our comprehensive testing services cover all major standards and regulations, providing independent verification of your foam products' compliance.
Performance Validation Uncertainty
Element's extensive testing capabilities help you verify all critical foam properties before product launch, reducing risk and ensuring market-ready products.
Quality Control Assurance
Our independent testing services enable accurate material comparison and specification conformance, supporting your quality control processes.
Product Durability Concerns
Through fatigue testing and accelerated aging analysis, we help you understand and predict long-term performance characteristics of your foam materials.
Element Experts at your Service
Browse our experts by discipline and specialty, and explore their skills and experience.
Why Choose Element
Global Expert Network
Access to over 8,500 engaged experts across multiple continents for comprehensive support.
Independent Testing Authority
Trusted third-party testing services specifically tailored for mattress and furniture industries.
Complete Product Evaluation
Capability to test foam independently or as part of finished products.
Comprehensive Testing Solutions
Full range of testing services from basic property analysis to complete compliance verification.
Explore our global network of Labs and find your nearest location
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Fatigue Testing
Find out how Element's fatigue testing labs help companies meet quality requirements and create safer, stronger, more successful parts and products.
Polymer Testing Services
Element’s polymer testing labs offer world-class expertise in testing for polymeric materials, including elastomers, thermoplastics, composites, coatings, and structural adhesives in a variety of industries.
Mechanical & Destructive Testing
Element's mechanical tests are part of our destructive testing services, they show whether a material or part is suitable for its intended mechanical applications.
Bedding & Mattress Testing
Element provides expert mattress testing services to manufacturers in the consumer, medical, and institutional industries to evaluate product flammability, durability, and performance.
Fire and Flammability Testing
Learn about Element's complete range of flammability testing methods for aerospace and transportation, textiles, consumer goods, and furniture materials.
Materials Testing
Find out more about Element's comprehensive ranges of materials testing services available in the TIC sector, covering materials selection, application and performance testing as well as failure analysis testing services.