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.

 

  • Flexible Cellular Materials  
  • Slab Urethane Foams  
  • Bonded Urethane Foams  
  • Molded Urethane Foams  
  • Foam Mattress Components  
  • Foam Furniture Components 
Foam Testing Services
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.
Standards

16 CFR Part 1632. 16 CFR Part 1633

ASTM C 272, ASTM D3574 (B1 & B2), ASTM F1566 (6, 7, & 9)

BFD IX-11 Open-flame mattress

CA TB116, CA TB117

FMVSS 302

GMNA GM3802M, GMNA GM6083M

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.

What is the most common test standard for urethane foam?

ASTM D3574 is the most commonly referenced test method for urethane foam, containing several individual test methods for determining various properties of flexible cellular materials. 

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