What is a thermoset?

Thermoset
A thermoset is a polymer that forms irreversible chemical bonds during the curing process. Unlike
thermoplastics that can be melted and remould multiple times, thermosets (as their names suggest) are
set in a permanent physical and chemical composition after the first curing process. This occurs as
polymers in the material ‘cross-link’, performing an unbreakable, irreversible bond. This unique feature
makes thermosetting polymers an excellent choice for parts that need to have excellent dimensional
stability at elevated temperatures.
The critical difference between thermoplastics and thermosets is how the materials behave during the
curing process. Thermosets strengthen when cured but form chemical bonds that make them impossible
to remould. Thermoplastics do not form any chemical bond when curing, making them re-mouldable and
recyclable. This three-dimensional bonding in thermosets makes them stronger and more heat resistant
than thermoplastics.

Thermosets' ability to retain their strength and geometry when exposed to elevated temperatures set
them apart from thermoplastics. Thermosets will often degrade before melting when exposed to excess
heat. These properties mean plastics can be used as a low-cost replacement for metals in some
applications.

In a nutshell, thermosets generally have greater physical properties than thermoplastics; however they
cannot be remoulded and recycled.

Thermoset materials
Melamine
Epoxy
Polyester
Silicone
Urea-formaldehyde
Polyurethane
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)
Thermoplastic materials

Acrylic (PMMA)
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Nylon
Polypropylene (PP)
Polycarbonate (PC)
Acetal Copolymer Polyoxymethylene (POM-C)
Acetal Homopolymer Polyoxymethylene (POM-H)

Advantages of thermosets
✅ High-temperature resistance

✅ Good chemical resistance

✅ Excellent dimensional stability

✅ High Strength, toughness and rigidity

Disadvantages of thermosets

❌ Non-recyclable (cannot be remoulded)

❌ Poor thermal conductivity (e.g. for electrical housing)

❌ Brittle

Advantages of thermoplastics

✅ Eco-friendly and recyclable

✅ Excellent impact resistance

✅ Better aesthetic finishing

✅ Good adhesion to metals

Disadvantages of thermoplastics

❌ Can degrade when exposed to UV

❌ May soften when exposed to heat

❌ Can be more expensive than a thermoset