Full definition
Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer — technically a thermoplastic elastomer rather than a true vulcanized rubber, valued for its lightweight closed-cell foam properties, excellent cushioning, flexibility at low temperatures, and ease of processing. VA content typically 18-40% (higher VA = softer, more rubber-like). As a foam (expanded): density 30-200 kg/m³, excellent shock absorption, closed-cell structure (waterproof), good thermal insulation. Hardness: 25-50 Shore C (foam), 40-90 Shore A (solid). Temperature range: -40 to +60°C (limited high-temperature capability). Per ASTM D3575 for flexible cellular materials. Applications: athletic shoe midsoles (largest use — running shoes, sandals), protective packaging (electronics, fragile items), exercise and yoga mats, floating buoys, interlocking floor tiles for playgrounds and gyms, and gasket/sealing strips. Processed by injection molding, compression foaming (cross-linked PE/EVA foam), and extrusion. Limitations: poor oil resistance, limited heat resistance, UV degradation without stabilizers. Not a substitute for true rubber in demanding sealing or dynamic applications.