# Recovered Foam Impact Absorption Systems
## 1 Introduction  
The general objective of this research is to develop a technological application for the use of exhausted foam materials or textile elements generated in leisure facilities to convert them into impact absorption systems enabling the reuse of contaminating elements such as textiles and foam in leisure-related applications, where protection against impact and energy absorption when it occurs is key to ensure the safety of the facilities. The increase in textile consumption and the trend towards fast fashion among consumers have led to a rapid global increase in textile waste in the municipal solid waste (MSW) stream. Worldwide, 75% of textile waste is landfilled, while only 25% is recycled or reused [1]. With respect to waste management, the most common current opinion is to prioritize the reuse of products over the recycling of materials, with landfill disposal being the least desirable option. In the case of textiles and products made of similar materials such as foam, all these alternatives are feasible; however, there is currently a lack of effective techniques for recycling materials [2]. The reuse of these products in their original form is a common practice in domestic waste management [3], but currently, if we analyze the problem from an industrial point of view, we still do not have the capacity to reuse products in their original form. Industrial textile waste is considered \"dirty waste\" generated from commercial and industrial textile applications. The expansion of the textile and leisure industry has led to a rapid global increase in textile waste. Many techniques to recycle textile materials are being developed due to the increasing consumption of these materials [4; 5; 6; 7; 8]. However, several studies have shownthe importance of reusing products based on these materials since, for every kg reused or recycled, textiles save more greenhouse gases than paper, plastic, and glass combined [9]. The increasing need to reduce environmental impact has led to a growing interest in developing methods to repurpose materials that would otherwise be discarded, particularly in industries where materials are in frequent contact with users and undergo significant wear [10]. One such example is the leisure industry, where foams used in jumping pools and other recreational facilities degrade over time, necessitating their periodic replacement to maintain safety and hygiene standards. The challenge lies in finding sustainable ways to reuse or repurpose these materials without resorting to traditional recycling methods, which often involve destroying the material, thereby consuming additional energy and generating further waste [11]. Polyurethane (PU) foam, a widely used material in these environments, presents an opportunity for reuse due to its inherent mechanical properties, particularly its ability to absorb impact energy [12]. This study seeks to explore the potential for repurposing PU foam, specifically focusing on impact absorption systems, which are in high demand across various sectors, including automotive, aeronautics, packaging, and construction [13]. PU foam, formed by an aggregation of bubbles, is a lightweight, porous plastic material known for its shock-absorbing qualities, making it suitable for reuse in applications that require protective elements [14]. However, despite its extensive use and the volumes of waste it generates, there is a lack of viable recycling solutions, particularly in industries where its functionality is diminished due to wear or damage [15]. Other aspects, such as high volumes due to the low density of foams, make the management of such waste difficult, both in terms of logistics and delivery to incineration plants [16]. The selectivity of polyurethane for this research, over other materials such as polystyrene or polyethylene, is due to its unique combination of properties. Unlike other foams, PU foam exhibits excellent flexibility, resilience, and energy absorption capabilities, making it an ideal candidate for impact protection systems [17].