Thermoplastic

Thermoplastic, or thermosoft plastic, is a plastic polymer material that becomes pliable or moldable at a certain elevated temperature and solidifies upon cooling.   Common examples of thermoplastics include acrylic, polyester, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon and Teflon. 

A thermoplastic is any plastic material which melts into a soft, pliable form above a certain temperature and solidifies upon cooling. Thermoplastics can be re-melted and re-shaped any number of times. They are usually stored in the form of pellets prior to the molding process.

Common examples of thermoplastics include acrylic, polyester, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon and Teflon. These materials see a wide variety of use in manufacturing products from clothing and non-stick cookware to carpets and laboratory equipment.

In contrast to thermoplastics, thermosets (alternately known as thermosetting plastics or thermosetting polymers) are materials which remain in a permanent solid state after being cured one time. Polymers within the material cross-link during the curing process to perform an unbreakable, irreversible bond. This means that thermosets will not melt even when exposed to extremely high temperatures.

Common examples of thermoset plastics and polymers include epoxy, silicone, polyurethane and phenolic. In addition, some materials such as polyester can occur in both thermoplastic and thermoset versions. Unlike thermoplastic pellets, the components of thermoset polymers are stored in liquid form, usually in large tanks or containers.