What is the Difference Between Thermoplastic and Thermoset?

The main difference between thermoplastics and thermosets lies in their behavior during the curing process and their reheatability. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Curing Process: Thermosets strengthen when cured but form chemical bonds that make them impossible to remould. In contrast, thermoplastics do not form any chemical bond when curing, making them re-mouldable and recyclable.
2. Reheatability: Thermoplastics can be heated, cooled, and reshaped repeatedly without altering their chemical structure. Thermosets, on the other hand, undergo a chemical change when heated and cannot be remelted or reshaped after the initial forming.
3. Melting Point: Thermoplastics have a lower melting point than thermosets. When heated after curing, thermoplastics melt, whereas thermosets do not and retain a solid shape.
4. Strength and Heat Resistance: Thermosets are stronger and more heat resistant than thermoplastics due to their three-dimensional bonding. They retain their strength and geometry when exposed to elevated temperatures, while thermoplastics do not.

In summary, thermoplastics are re-mouldable and recyclable, with a lower melting point, while thermosets are stronger, more heat resistant, and cannot be remelted or reshaped after the initial forming. The choice between thermoplastics and thermosets depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as strength, heat resistance, and reheatability.

Comparative Table: Thermoplastic vs Thermoset

The main difference between thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics lies in their behavior during the curing process and their re-moldability. Here is a table summarizing the differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics:

Thermoplastics do not form any chemical bond when curing, making them re-moldable and recyclable. On the other hand, thermosetting plastics strengthen when cured but form chemical bonds that make them impossible to remold. Thermosets are generally stronger and more heat resistant than thermoplastics due to their three-dimensional bonding.