Introduction to thermosetting plastics
Thermoset plastics are often sold as liquid monomer-polymer mixtures or partially polymerized forming composites. The thermosetting plastic is injected into the mold cavity from an uncured state, and under pressure or unpressurized condition, it is heated or catalyzed by a chemical mixture to form a polymer. Thermosetting plastics are usually added with minerals, lime, glass fiber and other fillers or reinforcements to enhance properties, such as control of shrinkage, chemical resistance, shock resistance, insulation, heat insulation or cost reduction. The finer the mesh of its structure, the better the heat resistance and chemical resistance. Epoxy resin and phenolic resin are common thermosetting plastics. Thermoset plastics are often used in products such as ICs.