Cushioning material for pillow

Attuning to each individual's 'head' and 'sleep posture,' comfortably supporting daily sleep.

The filling material commonly used in pillows is often polyethylene-based, which is inexpensive. However, there is a challenge in that it is difficult to match the needs of each individual in terms of comfort and fit.
On the other hand, there are efforts to address these issues by using low-resilience materials such as urethane or through special shapes. However, problems with durability also exist, such as the risk of deformation over long-term use and the inability to balance with maintenance (washing) requirements.

By utilizing the characteristics of an absorbent material that softens and deforms according to body temperature, it may be possible to develop products that allow each individual to experience their own unique sense of "comfort."
Since it can be designed in a general pipe shape, it may be easier to achieve customization of comfort (sleep quality) by "combining" different types of cushioning materials. Additionally, it could potentially solve maintenance issues such as "deformation" and "deterioration."

Proposal of a new sleep experience: By leveraging the characteristic of the absorbent material that softens within the temperature range of body heat, the product design achieves a balance between a comfortable fit and appropriate cushioning. This results in a new sleep experience, offering a unique tactile sensation that has never been seen before.

Improvement of maintainability: Due to its pipe shape, the product design eliminates the extra burden of regular maintenance, such as replacing or washing the cushioning material, making it easier to care for and more durable over time.

Q1.What is your first impression of ABSORTOMER^™?: ＿When I saw the sample at the exhibition, I was greatly surprised by its mysterious properties, unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

Q2.Why did you decide to try to apply the material in the manufacturing of face masks?: ＿I thought that the characteristic of AbsorTM softening with body temperature would be suitable for cushioning material, so I decided to give it a try.

Q3.What were you excited most about the development of ABSORTOMER^™?: ＿When I confirmed the unique properties in the first prototype, I was very excited about the birth of a new type of cushioning material and its potential.

Q4.What role does Mitsui Chemicals play in your product development?: ＿From material suggestions to development support, they play a crucial role in every step of the new product development process.

Q5.What does ABSORTOMER^™ mean to you now?: ＿The property of softening with body temperature and relieving stress is highly compatible with cushioning materials, making it an essential material in the pursuit of comfort.

CASE