Link between structures and processes

As we saw in the previous section, there is a strong link between the processes used to manufacture metal foams and the structures of these foams. Each process corresponds to one or more typical structures, characterized by their pore size, the continuity of their gaseous phase (open or closed pores) or their porosity ratio. In many cases, these structures can only be obtained for specific metal compositions. The presence of particles within the metal phase of foams is also sometimes imposed by the process.

Table 2 summarizes the main characteristics of metal foams according to the type of process used to manufacture them. The various figures should be considered as orders of magnitude only, and not as absolute limits. Where possible, they are taken from scientific publications or product data sheets. Otherwise,...