Lämpömuovit

Lämpömuovit, also known as thermoplastics, are a class of polymers that soften and become moldable when heated above a certain temperature, and solidify again when cooled. This reversible process can be repeated multiple times, allowing them to be easily shaped and reshaped. This characteristic distinguishes them from thermosetting plastics, which undergo an irreversible chemical change upon heating and cannot be remelted.

The molecular structure of thermoplastics consists of long, linear or branched polymer chains that are held together by relatively weak intermolecular forces, such as van der Waals forces. When heat is applied, these forces are overcome, allowing the chains to slide past each other, resulting in a fluid or semi-fluid state. Upon cooling, the intermolecular forces reassert themselves, locking the chains into a solid structure.

Common examples of thermoplastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These materials are widely used in various applications due to their versatility, processability, and recyclability. They are found in packaging, textiles, automotive parts, consumer goods, and construction materials. The ability to melt and reform makes them ideal for injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding processes.