Technology to produce polypropylene foam with a simplified production process, at competitive cost, has been developed by Himont in conjunction with CSI (Center for Applied Research, Italy). The foam is the only PP foam in the world capable of producing coloured beads. Installation near to end-user plants offers possibility of reducing freight costs which raise costs of conventional foams. Specific properties of the new foam are low water absorption, resistance to chemical solvents, durability and dimensional stability, plus favourable cost/performance ratio. The foam does not contain CFCs and is therefore environmentally friendly and recyclable. Potential markets are automotive (bumper absorbers, headrests, armrests, door panels, headliners, sun visors), industrial packaging (including technical) and heat insulation (for temperatures exceeding the limits of PUR and PS foams).