Thermoplastic

Definition

Thermoplastics are a type of synthetic polymer that become soft and moldable upon heating and return to a solid state when cooled. This reversible process allows thermoplastics to be reshaped and recycled without altering their chemical structure.

Related terms

Polymerization:

The chemical process in which monomers join together to form a polymer, often used in creating synthetic polymers.

Monomer:

A small molecule that can be bonded to other identical molecules to form a polymer; the basic building block of polymers.

Plasticizer: A substance added to plastics to increase their flexibility, reduce brittleness, and enhance moldability