termoplasty

Termoplasty is a term used to describe processes that reshape materials or tissues through the application of heat to a pliable state, followed by cooling to fix the new form. The word combines thermo- meaning heat and plast- meaning to mold or form.

In materials science, termoplasty commonly refers to thermoplastic forming. In this context, a thermoplastic polymer is heated above its softening or melting point, it is deformed into a desired shape, and then cooled to solidify the final form. This category includes hot forming, thermoforming, and related processes applied to thermoplastic materials, offering versatility in manufacturing and customization.

In biomedical and clinical contexts, termoplasty is used informally to describe procedures that alter tissue or implanted devices with controlled thermal energy, including reshaping, remodeling, or ablation, using energy sources such as lasers, radiofrequency, or focused ultrasound. In many cases, the more established terms thermoplasty or thermally assisted remodeling are used in place of termoplasty, depending on the specific technique and application.

Techniques and materials associated with termoplasty span several energy delivery methods, including induction heating, infrared, laser, RF, and microwave heating. Materials employed range from thermoplastic polymers used in medical devices and dental appliances to specialty polymers and composites designed for heat-assisted shaping. The method emphasizes temperature control and timing to achieve desired geometry while minimizing thermal damage.

Related topics include thermoplastic forming, thermoplasty, and thermoforming.