termosettti

Termosettti is a Finnish word that translates to thermoset in English. A thermoset is a polymer that, once cured, hardens irreversibly. This hardening process occurs through chemical cross-linking, forming a rigid three-dimensional network structure. Unlike thermoplastics, which can be repeatedly softened and molded by heating, thermosets cannot be melted or reshaped once they have undergone their curing reaction.

The curing process for thermosets typically involves applying heat or a catalyst. Common examples of thermosetting polymers include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyester resins, and vulcanized rubber. These materials are known for their excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Their rigid, cross-linked structure prevents chains from sliding past each other, contributing to their durability and resistance to deformation.

Due to these properties, thermosets are used in a wide range of applications. They are found in adhesives, coatings, composite materials (like fiberglass and carbon fiber reinforced plastics), electrical insulation, and durable consumer goods. Their inability to be melted also means that when they reach the end of their life cycle, they are generally not recyclable in the same way as thermoplastics, posing a challenge for waste management. The term "termosettti" in Finnish simply refers to this class of irreversibly hardening polymers.