Aerospace technology has benefited mankind in many ways, most of them unintentional. While researching ways to improve comfort and efficiency aboard space capsules and space stations, discoveries have been made that also help the average man on the street.

One of these results is the technology that is used to produce the Memory Foam Mattress Topper. In the 1970’s, NASA scientists were looking for ways to reduce the tremendous effects of gravity on the human body during lift-off and re-entry. In the process, they invented viscoelastic material. Visco refers to the liquid-like properties of the foam, while elastic means the ability to return to the original shape. Thus, viscoelactic material is supportive and molds to the body, but rather than retaining this molded form, returns slowly to its original shape.

Due to the cost of the foam, and the fact that it had many problems, including brittleness and fumes that could be hazardous in the confines of a space shuttle, NASA stopped their experiments, and sold the technology to Fagerdala World Foams of Sweden, one of Europe’s leading foam producers. In the 1980’s, Fagerdala began their own experiments to perfect the technology and make it feasible for consumer use. One of the first commercial uses of memory foam, as it came to be called, was for cushions for wheelchair seats, to prevent sores on those who were confined to the chairs.

The Production Of The Memory Foam Mattress Topper

The Memory Foam Mattress Topper is basically made of the same polyurethane foam as other foam rubber products, and which has been available for many years. However, certain chemicals are added which change the weight and density. One feature of memory foam that makes it different from other foams is that it is sensitive to changes in temperature. At room temperature, it is flat and smooth. When a person lies down on it, the body heat of the person warms up the foam, making it softer and more pliable. Where the heaviest part of the body lies, usually the hips and buttocks, the foam is the warmest and softest, allowing the body to sink in and nestle. Arms and legs are cooler, so the foam stays cooler, thus allowing support to all areas of the body, and permitting the body to almost float on the foam, keeping the spine and other body parts in their correct alignment.

Memory foam starts out as a liquid. The various chemical components are poured into a large tank, and combined. It is then fed onto a large conveyor belt. A chemical reaction causes the temperature to rise, and as it does, the level of the liquid rises, much like a yeast dough in the bread-making process. Just as in bread, air holes form in the foam material. As it cools, it “sets” into a solid material. It is then cut into large chunks and stored in a warehouse where it can cure for a time. After curing, the blocks are cut into individual products, such as a Memory Foam Mattress Topper or Memory Foam Pillow.