In general how does the processing of thermoplastics into th

In general how does the processing of thermoplastics into the desired shape differ from the processing of thermosetting plastics?

Solution

There are two types of Plastic based on the processing of plastics. First one is Thermoplastics and Other one is Thermosetting Plastics.

A material which becomes either soft when heated above the glass transition temperature (melting temperature) or becomes hard after cooling is called thermoplastics. It can be reversibly either melted by heating or solidified by cooling in certain number of cycles without affecting the mechanical properties.It can be recycle many number of times. It can be processed by heating up to the glass transition temperature (melting temperature) and it can be formed into the desired shape with the help of application of pressure.

While other material which is becoming permanently hard and rigid after a cooling when heated above the melting temperature is known as thermosetting plastics. It is a irreversibly material means it can not revert back (soften) when heated. It is not a recyclable material.The processing of thermosetting plastics can be done in two steps.

First it can be melted and then poured into the mold to make a desired shape.