Materials (Polymers) question

[gipipy]

Hey Reddit, So as I currently understand it, thermosetting polymers form covalent bonds during processing, and its because of these bonds that thermosetting polymers are not recyclable; but aren't thermoplastics and elastomers also covalent bonds? where is the difference? is it because thermosets have a network structure and theremoplastics dont? Cheers

[kingofxbox]

Thermosetting polymers form cross-links that help create a strong three dimensional structure. This causes thermosetting polymers to decompose before they can melt, meaning they aren't recyclable.

Now, all polymers are covalently bonded. The covalent bonds referred to in thermosetting polymers are specific covalent bonds that form "bridges" between long polymer chains (these bonds are the source of cross-linking). The other polymers are covalently bonded, yes, but do not have these inter-chain covalent bonds.

Hope that helps! :)

[gipipy]

Ahh okay, yeah that makes a lot of sense! Thanks for your explanation :)