Authors : R. Roslim, M.R. Fatimah Rubaizah, K. Shamsul, K.L. Mok and M.Y. Amir Hashim
Abstract: A novel firm and dense yet soft natural rubber latex foam memory foam with delayed-recovery and low-bounce properties has been successfully developed. The developed natural rubber latex memory foam exhibits comparable physical properties as the standard natural rubber latex foam. The foam was observed able to retain an imprint for approximately 5-6 sec when pressed. The degree of bounce from a silica ball after it was dropped onto the foam surface was found to be visibly lower than that from the standard natural rubber latex foam. This shows the developed foam has a low upward pressure as well as able to absorb downward forces. The foam was also able to support a 250 mL filled bottle firmly, indicating its high strength property. The static and dynamic damping test confirms that the foam could absorb and distribute the weight force energy better than standard natural rubber latex foam. A combination of firm, dense yet soft, delayed-recovery, low-bounce and supportive properties is important to provide an all-inclusive bedding system that can contour the body to help relieve pressure from stress points at our body towards a comfortable overnight sleep, aligned posture and improved health.
R. Roslim, M.R. Fatimah Rubaizah, K. Shamsul, K.L. Mok and M.Y. Amir Hashim, 2017. Novel Natural Rubber Latex Memory Foam. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 12: 5560-5565.