Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA):
Industry Uses, Properties, and Common Questions
Companies looking for a lightweight material to manufacture products—from packaging to footwear—may choose to work with Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). This copolymer comes in various forms and has a wide range of applications across multiple industries.
Its excellent weather resistance, UV resistance, and chemical inertia make this material highly durable, which makes it particularly suitable for outdoor use. It is also very flexible and can be easily molded and processed by manufacturers to create complex shapes.
Keep reading to learn exactly what Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is, its benefits and properties, and how it can be used across various industries.
¿What is Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)?
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is a copolymer made from a combination of ethylene and vinyl acetate. Depending on the percentage of vinyl acetate used, EVA can be:
- A plastic-like film that contains low levels of vinyl acetate (VA)
- A rubber-like material that contains higher levels of vinyl acetate.
- A soft, foam-like fabric.
While the properties of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate can vary depending on the levels of vinyl acetate, EVA is typically highly flexible and malleable, soft to the touch, and impact-resistant.
It generally retains its shape even in humid conditions. It is often used to produce fabrics for sportswear and outdoor gear.
¿What is Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) used for?
Known for its soft, moldable, and durable properties, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is an excellent material for applications that require cushioning, impact absorption, and comfort.
This can include items such as wetsuits, footwear, and protective clothing. It is also commonly used in packaging materials, such as foam inserts, as well as in thermal and acoustic insulation applications in construction, automotive, and industrial sectors.
It is common in sports equipment, such as helmets, padding, and protective gear. The solar industry also uses Ethylene Vinyl Acetate in solar panels to protect the solar cells. Lastly, the adhesive properties of EVA make it suitable for use in formulating adhesives and sealants.
¿What are the properties of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)?
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) can have a variable vinyl acetate content, ranging from a minimum of 4% to a maximum of 60%. This adjusts the characteristics of the material, but EVA generally presents the following qualities.
Elasticity and softness
One of the most common characteristics of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is its flexibility and soft touch. It is easy to mold without losing its shape, making it suitable for cushioning or padding. It remains flexible even at low temperatures.
Durability and resistance
Non-toxic
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is non-toxic, which means it is safe for use in childcare, the medical industry, and food-related applications.
Lightweight
Being extremely lightweight, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is highly versatile. It is a popular choice for protective clothing and footwear products.
Weather-resistant
Low melting temperature
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) melts at a low temperature, offering versatility in textile product manufacturing and allowing for easy bonding during production processes.
Noise and heat
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) has noise-reducing properties and low thermal conductivity. Therefore, it can be used for sound absorption or thermal insulation.
Recyclability
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is recyclable, which helps reduce environmental impact.
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) industry uses
Many industries are taking advantage of the versatility of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA).
Textile industry
One of the most common uses of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is in the creation of textiles and textile products. Its waterproof and insulating properties make it ideal for applications such as wetsuits.
Footwear
Medical and healthcare industry:
Packaging
Light and flexible, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) can serve as a foam-like cushioning material or as a transparent film, both ideal for packaging types. For food packaging, consider the eco-friendly, non-toxic food-grade EVA.
Construction industry
Electronics and electrical applications
Both as an electrical insulator and a material that protects against moisture, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) works well in electronic components, such as connectors, cable covers, and seals.
Solar energy industry
The photovoltaic (PV) industry uses Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) to encapsulate solar cells within PV modules and protect them from the elements.
Medical sector
Laminating and coating
Due to its low melting point, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) can easily be transformed into a hot-melt adhesive used in the lamination process to bond different materials, such as fabrics, papers, and films.
Frequently asked questions
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is considered safe and non-toxic, free of phthalates and BPA. It is biocompatible, meaning it can be used in medical applications without harming the human body.
EVA, or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, is a type of plastic made from a mixture of ethylene and vinyl acetate. While it is technically not a rubber, it exhibits some rubber-like qualities, such as its texture and natural stretchability.
EVA is non-hazardous and non-toxic, complying with regulations and being acceptable to use in health care and food-grade products.
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is safe to use. Due to its excellent impact absorption, lightweight nature, and soft touch, it is an ideal material for safety equipment, protective clothing, and wetsuits for water activities.
Your high-quality, affordable Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) solution
Choosing the right industrial textiles for your manufacturing projects can be a time-consuming task. However, it is crucial to select the most effective, practical, and cost-efficient materials to best meet your needs.
Head to Expafol to ensure you always receive the highest quality Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). Whatever your industry, Expafol is one of Europe’s leading textile manufacturers, offering large quantities of industrial-grade fabrics.
EVA is the ultimate choice for a lightweight, high-strength, and elastic material across many industries. Contact the Expafol team and discover how you can start working with this amazing material.
