What are the Differences between Gel Memory Foam and Ordinary Sponge?

Gel memory foam and ordinary sponge have essential differences in material composition and functional properties, and the difference comes from the engineering improvement of molecular structure. Gel memory foam is based on a polyurethane matrix and injected with temperature-sensitive gel particles to form a three-dimensional mesh structure with viscoelastic properties. This design enables it to have pressure hysteresis response ability and can adjust local support strength with changes in body temperature. Ordinary sponges mostly rely on open-cell foaming technology, and the material porosity and rebound rate show a linear relationship, which cannot achieve dynamic deformation adaptation.

Thermal management performance is the core difference dimension. Gel memory foam particles absorb and disperse body heat through phase change, slowing down the heat accumulation effect caused by the dense structure of traditional memory foam. The closed-cell or semi-closed-cell structure of ordinary sponges hinders air circulation and is prone to form a local hot and humid environment after long-term compression. In terms of density distribution, gel memory foam achieves regional support through gradient compression technology, while the homogenized structure of ordinary sponges is difficult to match the irregular stress requirements of human body curves.

The composite structure of gel memory foam inhibits the permanent slip of polymer chains and reduces the risk of collapse after repeated compression. The single material system of ordinary sponges is prone to plastic deformation under continuous load, resulting in a decrease in support performance. In terms of cleaning and maintenance, the hydrophobic surface treatment of gel memory foam can reduce the depth of liquid penetration. In contrast, the high hygroscopicity of ordinary sponges may accelerate the growth of microorganisms.