15 Nov History and Uses of Memory Foam
When you hear the term “memory foam,” chances are you think of a mattress. This is one of the most common and well-known uses for this substance, but did you know that it also has numerous other essential benefits?
Most people know very little about memory foam other than its presence in their mattress. Let’s look at the history of memory foam, where else it’s used, and how a memory foam mattress can benefit you.
NASA and History
Memory foam is also called Tempur or Tempur Foam, and was created by NASA in 1966. Researchers were looking for ways to increase the shock absorbency of airplane seats at the time, and an engineer named Charles Yost created an “open-cell, polymeric ‘memory’ foam material with unusual viscoelastic properties.”
NASA quickly found that this new material offered great impact protection, and was also very comfortable. In the 1980s, they made it more widely available to consumers, and this is when it initially became popular for use in mattresses. Since this time, engineers have tinkered with memory foam to make it even more versatile – it’s now useful in a huge number of areas. Our next section looks at some of these.
Other Areas of Use
Memory foam can now be used in a huge variety of areas, from sports and activity to many other comfort areas. You can find it in rugs, yoga mats, bike seats, insoles, support cushions, wheelchairs, football helmets and many other items.
Mattress Notes
Memory foam is soft and absorbent, and also responds to both heat and pressure. When you lie down on a memory foam mattress or mattress topper, the material will mold to your body and help evenly distribute your weight. Once you get up again, the foam will spring back to its usual shape.
This is perfect for many people who want both temperature and pressure control. However, do know that memory foam isn’t for everyone – some people prefer a mattress that won’t mold to their shape. Memory foam may help with pressure point issues, but it’s not proven to help with other sleep issues like snoring or sleep apnea.
For more on memory foam mattresses, or to learn about any of our mattress services, speak to the pros at 2 Brothers Mattress today.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.