Sodium bicarbonate is used as an endothermic foaming agent in the production of a wide range of plastic foams.

Sodium bicarbonate decomposes when heated above 100ºC, giving off 135 ml/g of carbon dioxide (the theoretical yield is 267 ml/g). Decomposition is much more rapid above 140ºC, making it an excellent foaming agent in the production of structural thermoplastic foams (densities over 200 kg/m 3 ), polyolefins, PVC and PS. Since this decomposition is endothermic, it cools the plastic more rapidly and allows a shorter cycle time. It also gives a better finish with fewer faults than exothermic foaming agents.

our BICAR® FOAM brochure