Moisturereactive
Moisture-reactive describes substances that undergo a chemical or physical transformation in response to moisture, typically atmospheric humidity or contact with water. The moisture trigger can induce polymerization, hydrolysis, hydration, dissolution, swelling, or phase changes, depending on chemical structure and environment. The term is used across polymers, sealants, coatings, and high-humidity sensing materials.
Mechanisms include moisture-curing silicones and some polyurethanes, where surface moisture initiates crosslinking to form elastomeric films.
Applications encompass sealing and bonding, smart coatings, moisture sensors, hydrogels for drug delivery, and moisture-responsive actuators.
Limitations include sensitivity to ambient humidity causing unintended activation, storage and shelf-life considerations requiring controlled conditions,
See also: humidity, hydrolysis, hygroscopy, moisture-curing adhesives, hydrogels, moisture sensors.