Foam Core Board
A foam core board is a board made of a layer of foam attached with paper or card on either side. The core of this board is usually made of polystyrene or its variants and is pre-coated with heat-activated adhesive. Foam boards can be used for displaying artwork as well as trade signs, menus, informational signage, indoor point of purchases signage and many other types of signage.
Foam core boards are available in five different types. These include the following:
1.Standard foam board- Standard foam boards are available in several sizes and colors to suit every individual’s needs. These boards are available in two levels of thickness: 0.32 cm (0.125 inch) and 0.48 cm (0.1875 inch). The original versions of these foam boards are also equipped with adhesive backing that allows easy mounting of artworks. Artworks can only be mounted temporarily on these boards, though, as these boards are not practical for long term use because of their acidic nature. Standard foam boards have an acidity level of 5.5-6.5, making it harder for inks to stay longer on prints.
2.Prime Foam-X board- This type of foam board has some similarities with the standard type. However, it also has characteristics that are noticeably different from the standard foam boards. Prime Foam-X boards are available only in white color as opposed to the standard type that is available in a wide variety of colors. The paper attached to the core of this board is thicker compared to the standard type and is usually glossier. This board is also incorporated with a UV inhibitor for added protection against the heat of the sun. Another advantage of this type of foam board is that it helps retain the shape of artworks because of its higher density.
3.Gatorfoam board- Gatorfoam boards can be more durable than the other two types mentioned above. T he paper used in the core of this board is resin-impregnated and multi-layered and the foam is made from Dow Styrofoam polystyrene, a harder and more durable type of polystyrene. Because the materials used in this board are more durable, the Gatorboard is also durable. In fact, it can be used as an alternative to plywood when making model buildings. Gatorboards are available in two colors: black and white. They have a thickness of 0.19 inch to 1 inch. These boards are also available in two grades: Gatorfoam I, which is the standard and Gatorfoam II, the less expensive type.
4.Gilman board- Gilman boards have high similarity with the Gatorboard, particularly Gatorfoam II. The difference is that the Gilman board has block foam or an expanded polystyrene core. Its outer sheeting is incorporated with clay coated white sulphate paper. Gilman boards are available only in one size and are usually used in framing photographs.
5.Artcore- This type of foam core board is best for use in outdoor events because of its UV proof and water resistant properties. Sold only in white color, these boards are best for use in displays and outside signage.