• python@lemmy.worldEnglish
    2·
    1 day ago

    this is my emotional support styrofoam box (it’s been in my kitchen for 8 months now, there actually isnt any reason reason to keep it since the styrofoam box in my office is perfectly fine as well)

    • AddLemmus@lemmy.mlOPEnglish
      71·
      3 days ago

      See? The plain white ones are gigantic in size, wouldn’t find them easily, and the black one seems line one of a kind!

          • DominusOfMegadeus@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
            1·
            21 hours ago

            This Black Foam is what foam?

            You’re looking at something that’s dense, a bit squishy, but takes effort to compress. That puts it ptobably in the category of either XLPE or EVA foam.

            Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)

            • Smooth outside, super fine closed-cell texture
            • Somewhat difficult to compress, bounces back fast
            • Used in stuff like Pelican case inserts, insulation, flotation pads
            • Basically waterproof, holds up well to abuse

            EVA Foam

            • Slightly softer and more flexible than XLPE
            • Still dense, but easier to push in
            • Shows up in gym mats, cosplay armor, cheap padding, shoe soles
            • More likely to soak up a little moisture if submerged

            How to Tell Them Apart
            Thing to Check XLPE EVA
            Texture Finer, more uniform A bit more irregular
            Surface Feel Smooth, maybe a little glossy Matte, slight texture
            Water Resistance Almost totally waterproof Mostly, but not quite as good
            Squish Factor Firm, takes effort Softer, more give
            Nail Press Test Barely leaves a mark Leaves a temporary dent

            Quick DIY Tests

            • Water dunk: If it stays dry, probably XLPE. If it soaks even a little, probably EVA.
            • Fingernail press: XLPE resists. EVA gives in for a second.

            If you know what this piece came from (like a shipping insert, exercise mat, insulation panel) that can help narrow it down even more. Let me know and I will give it a shot.