Thermoset

Name:
Thermoset
Detailed information:
A high polymer that solidifies or “sets” irreversibly when heated. This property is usually associated with a cross-linking reaction of the molecular constituents induced by heat or radiation, as with proteins, and in the baking of doughs. In many cases, it is necessary to add “curing” agents such as organic peroxides or (in the case of rubber) sulfur. For example, linear polyethylene can be cross-linked to a thermosetting material by either radiation or chemical reaction. Phenolics, alkyds, amino resins, polyesters, epoxides, and silicones are usually considered to be thermosetting, but the term also applies to materials in which additive-induced cross-linking is possible, e.g., natural rubber.