Details and Benefits of PVA Sponges

About PVA Sponge
PVA Sponge, sometimes referred to as Polyvinyl Alcohol (formalized) Sponge, is a high tech plastic sponge that has many of the same properties and qualities of a natural sea sponge. Static-free and lint-free, PVA Sponge is hydrophilic with porosities from 55% to 95%. The surfaces of each sponge can be engineered for specific applications -- from very smooth pores to large open pores like sea sponges. All deliver an exceptionally high volume and speed of absorption, actually holding many times the volume of liquid compared to a natural sea sponge or sheepskin chamois. Elasticity and tensile strength properties help provide durability and allow the material to last much longer than other materials. Some of the unique qualities of PVA Sponge include:

* Rigid when dry, soft when wet
* Very Hydrophilic (it loves water and most liquids)
* Holds up to 12 times its dry weight
* Non-linting, non-scratching
* Mechanically strong, abrasion resistant
* Cells are interconnected
* Non-aging, lasts almost forever
* Natural color is white (may be manufactured in many colors)
* Excellent color fastness (can also be dyed or silk screened)
* Burns without toxic gases
* Good chemical resistance including acids, bases, and organic solvents
* May be molded or shaped in almost any configuration
* Heat resistant to 176oF (80oC) wet, 248oF (120oC) dry
* Pore size variable between 60 to 1500 microns
* Warm or hot water softens PVA sponge faster than cold water
* May be washed by hand or in a washing machine
Applications for PVA Sponge
PVA Sponge is used for many consumer, industrial, and o.e.m. (original equipment manufacturer) products, including:

Auto sponges and shammies
Cartridge filters and sheet filters
Absorption sponges and blocks for wicking excess water and liquids in boat bilges, aircraft, and vehicles
Component in hydrogen fuel cell batteries
Cosmetic sponges, facial towels, and hair drying towels
Medical sponge for eye, nose, and orthopedic surgery
Pet cooling and drying towels
Sport cooling & drying towels
Mops, sponges, and wipes
Rollers for drying tennis courts or fruit and vegetables
Rollers for coating or drying printed circuit boards
Clean room sponges and wipes
Noduled rollers for scrubbing semiconductors and memory disks
Rollers for automatic pool scrubbing machines
Rollers for drying float glass, television picture tubes and lcd panels, and auto windshields
Applications for horticulture
Abrasive resin grinding and polishing stones for superfinishing rollers
Abrasive sticks for wet sanding auto finishes, piano finishes, and musical instruments
Self inking stamp pads
High tech water filters, cartridge, and sheet filters
Shoe sole inserts for odor absorption
Sponge-tipped pen for decorating icing on a birthday cake with food-grade ink

What's your application for PVA Sponge? With over 38 years of experience in PVA sponge engineering, manufacturing, and marketing, our staff can quickly help you solve a technical issue or specify a particular product. Dealer and O.E.M. inquiries are welcomed!