| Abstract: | Cushion curves for a moulded pulp material were constructed and compared with cushion curves for an expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. The ability of the moulded pulp material to provide some shock absorption resulted from a number of ‘dimples’ moulded into the pulp sheet. As an impact was applied to the moulded pulp, these dimples crushed and thereby mitigated the shock. Results showed that the moulded-pulp test samples had good cushioning characteristics for low static loadings, low drop heights, and single impacts. However, the cushioning characteristics of the material were inferior to those of EPS foam at static loadings above about 5kPa, and where higher drop heights or multiple impacts occurred. These properties were improved by using two samples with interlocking dimples. It was concluded that the material had the potential to replace EPS foam in a limited number of situations, and several recommendations for future research were given. |
