Compare thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers: (a) according of mechanical characteristics upon heating; and (b) on the basis of possible molecular structures.

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Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
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**Comparison of Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Polymers**

**(a) Mechanical Characteristics Upon Heating:**

**Thermoplastic Polymers:** These polymers can be heated and reshaped multiple times without undergoing any significant chemical changes. When heated, they become soft and pliable, and harden upon cooling. This makes them highly recyclable and suitable for applications where re-molding is required.

**Thermosetting Polymers:** In contrast, thermosetting polymers undergo a chemical change when they are heated and molded, resulting in a rigid and inflexible structure. Once cured or set, they cannot be remolded or reheated to form a different shape. They are known for their durability and heat-resistance, but are not recyclable in the same way as thermoplastics.

**(b) Molecular Structures:**

**Thermoplastic Polymers:** These polymers typically have linear or branched structures with weak intermolecular forces. The absence of crosslinking allows the chains to slide past each other when heated, facilitating the melting and reshaping process.

**Thermosetting Polymers:** These polymers are characterized by a highly cross-linked structure, which creates a strong, three-dimensional network. The crosslinking provides stability and resistance to deformation, but also prevents the material from being remolded once it is set.

Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate type of polymer for specific applications based on factors such as the need for recyclability, mechanical flexibility, and thermal resistance.
Transcribed Image Text:**Comparison of Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Polymers** **(a) Mechanical Characteristics Upon Heating:** **Thermoplastic Polymers:** These polymers can be heated and reshaped multiple times without undergoing any significant chemical changes. When heated, they become soft and pliable, and harden upon cooling. This makes them highly recyclable and suitable for applications where re-molding is required. **Thermosetting Polymers:** In contrast, thermosetting polymers undergo a chemical change when they are heated and molded, resulting in a rigid and inflexible structure. Once cured or set, they cannot be remolded or reheated to form a different shape. They are known for their durability and heat-resistance, but are not recyclable in the same way as thermoplastics. **(b) Molecular Structures:** **Thermoplastic Polymers:** These polymers typically have linear or branched structures with weak intermolecular forces. The absence of crosslinking allows the chains to slide past each other when heated, facilitating the melting and reshaping process. **Thermosetting Polymers:** These polymers are characterized by a highly cross-linked structure, which creates a strong, three-dimensional network. The crosslinking provides stability and resistance to deformation, but also prevents the material from being remolded once it is set. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate type of polymer for specific applications based on factors such as the need for recyclability, mechanical flexibility, and thermal resistance.
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