Thermosetting plastic

Thermosetting plastics (thermosets) refer to a range of polymer materials that once cured do not flow, or melt, when heated. Thermoset materials are transformed, through the addition of energy, to a stronger substance. The energy may be in the form of heat (generally above 200 degrees Celsius) or irradiation, enabling a cross-linking chemical reaction (two part epoxy, for example) to occur. This is what is referred to as the "curing process." Thermoset materials are usually liquid or malleable prior to curing, and designed to be molded into their final form, or used as adhesive.

Related Topics:
Polymer - Melt - Celsius - Irradiation - Cross-linking - Epoxy - Malleable - Adhesive

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Thermoset polymer resins can be transformed into plastics or rubbers by cross-linking. Energy and catalysts are added that cause the molecular chains to link into a rigid, 3-D structure. A thermoset material cannot be melted and re-molded after it is cured.

Related Topics:
Polymer - Resin - Plastic - Rubber - Cross-link - Catalyst - 3-D

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Thermoset materials are generally stronger than thermoplastic materials. They are also better suited to high temperature applications. They are not easily recyclable like thermoplastics, which can be melted and re-molded.

Related Topics:
Thermoplastic - Temperature - Recyclable - Melt - Mold

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