What is XPE rubber?

Not all mats are created equal. XPE polyethylene foam mats have unique qualities that set them apart from other major foam mats like EVA, EPE and rubber. Durable, resilient, and shock-absorbing, XPE mats are quickly becoming the gold standard in athletic training. Through the use of a technologically advanced manufacturing process, XPE mats are soft, but also resistant to the wear-and-tear of life. Boasting a unique ability to prevent moisture absorption and being anti-microbial, these mats will quickly become the favourite, go-to mat in your gym.

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Understanding XPE Mats

To truly appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of XPE foam, one must understand the distinct manufacturing process used to create it. XPE is a type of cross-linked polyethylene foam that is particularly effective for applications needing thicker foam. This results from a unique chemical process that interlinks polyethylene particles, forming a net-like structure. Consequently, when cured, the walls of the material develop an embedded cellular structure. XPE is not only strong and dense but is made up of fine-celled particles that showcase superior physical and chemical properties.

Thermal Properties and Uses

Featuring excellent thermal insulating properties, XPE foam is widely utilized in the automotive industry, especially in situations where friction generates high heat. It is particularly suited for use in expansion joints and various industrial gaskets.

Shock Absorption Qualities

Another noteworthy advantage of XPE foam is its rigidity. When an athlete lands on the mat, it quickly springs back to its original shape. This property offers exceptional shock absorption, making it ideal for sports training environments.

Moisture Resistance

Thanks to its manufacturing process, XPE foam features a soft, moisture-resistant outer shell. XPE mats exhibit low moisture permeability, which lends to their antimicrobial properties. This makes them especially useful in athletic training settings where sweat frequently comes into contact with the surface.

EVA Mats Explained

EVA, or ethylene-vinyl acetate, is another popular type of versatile and durable foam. It is also water-resistant and flexible, often utilized in products ranging from toys to interlocking flooring solutions.

The manufacturing of EVA foam involves processes such as injection or compression molding, during which high heat and bubbles create its closed-cell structure, which bears similarity to XPE. The resulting material is not only durable but also possesses a rubber-like flexibility that enhances its shock absorption capabilities.

Comparing EPE Mats

EPE foam is yet another type of athletic mat, created by injecting low-density polyethylene with butane gas, resulting in a non-cross-linked, closed-cell structure. While EPE foam is the most economical option, it is the least durable when compared to EVA and XPE mats.

Rubber Mats Overview

Rubber mats, produced from recycled tires, stand at the other end of the spectrum. Although they provide excellent impact resistance, they fall short in terms of softness and shock absorption when compared to XPE, EVA, and EPE options.

XPE vs. EVA: Key Differences

The primary distinction between XPE and EVA lies in their manufacturing processes. EVA utilizes a chemical called formamide, which can off-gas and emit a distinctive odor that lingers for weeks after production. In contrast, XPE mats are entirely odorless, making them a favorable choice for regular use.

Despite some benefits of EVA—such as a softer exterior skin—XPE mats are longer-lasting due to their unique production method, involving a continuous foaming process that allows for longer sections compared to EVA.

Conclusion

XPE mats are the product of an innovative manufacturing process that creates thick, durable, and antibacterial athletic mats. Unlike EVA mats, which have a distinctive smell, XPE mats are virtually odor-free. Depending on your specific needs, EVA mats can still be useful, especially in thinner puzzle tiles; however, the superior quality of XPE mats makes them a worthwhile investment for most situations.

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