Question

What are thermosetting polymers?

Answer 1

Hint: Thermosetting polymers can also be called as thermoset or thermosetting plastics one can write an elaborative type answer describing the properties of thermosetting polymers, its advantages, and disadvantages in the answer.

 Complete step by step answer:
1) First of all we will discuss the term thermosetting polymers. The thermosetting polymer is a type of polymer which is made up of a cross-linked structure of the heavily branched molecules. They are also called as a thermoset plastic or thermosetting plastic.
2) Now let's discuss some properties of thermosetting polymers, these polymers get hardened in between the process of moulding and once solid they can never be softened. When these polymers are shaped after the process of molding they get a permanent three-dimensional structure which is a cross-linked structure. They have strong covalent bonds that help them get the strength even at the high temperatures.
3) Now let's see the process of thermoset polymers where the first stage is in which the resin is in insoluble and further gets to a fusible state. Further, in the second stage, they are partly soluble and lead to the next step where they display the characteristics of a thermoplastic. In this stage, the changes made are reversible and are in molten form. At last in the final stage, the cross-linking reaction happens and the final structure of thermosets is manufactured into the polymer. In this stage, it is conducted under controlled pressure and temperature.
4) The advantages of the thermosetting polymers are that they are more resistant to high temperatures and have very high levels of structural stability which allows them flexible structures. The major disadvantage is that they can't be recycled or reshaped.

Note:
The thermosetting polymers are very cost-effective hence used in kitchen apparatus and fabrics as well as in the making of floor tiles. These polymers are present in the form of soft solid or viscous states which on heating become very hard and insoluble products. They are also used for making electrical switches. Some examples of thermosetting polymers include Bakelite, vulcanized rubber, and polyesters.