ABSTRACT
As discussed previously, thermoplastic polymers can be repeatedly re-formed by the application of heat, similar to metallic materials. They are long-chain linear molecules that are easily formed by the application of heat and pressure at temperatures above a critical temperature referred to as the “glass temperature.” Because of this ability to be re-formed by heat, these materials can be recycled. However, thermal aging which results from repeated exposure to the high temperatures required for melting, causes eventual degradation of the polymer and limits the number of reheat cycles.
