Patent ID: 8337487

Claim:
A process for preparing a reticulated elastomeric matrix comprising a continuous network of intercommunicating passageways, said process comprising the steps of: (a) synthesizing a polycarbonate polyurethane foam comprising a plurality of cell walls defining a plurality of pores therein by reacting a mixture comprising: (i) a polycarbonate polyol, (ii) an isocyanate component, and (iii) a blowing agent for forming said plurality of pores; and (b) introducing said polycarbonate polyurethane foam to a vacuum chamber, (c) reducing pressure inside said vacuum chamber, (d) charging a combustible gas into said vacuum chamber, and (e) igniting said combustible gas within said vacuum chamber to remove at least about 40% of said plurality of cell walls to form said continuous network of intercommunicating passageways.