Redefining thermosets:a method of molding vulcanized rubber into new parts

摘要

For many years,researchers have been searching for a solution to the problem of recycling thermosetting materials (crosslinked polyurethanes,natural and synthetic rubbers,etc0.Most polymer science textbooks classify polymers into two categories:thermoplastic and thermoset.Thermosetting materials are defined as thermoplastic or liquid precursor polymers that react to form crosslinked networks upon vulcanization.Charles Goodyear and Nathaniel Haywood first discussed sulfur vulcanization inpatents between 1842-1844,In his patent Goodyear wrietes that,"No degree of heat without blaze canmelt it (rubber)..."The patent also states that rubber is resistant to the most powerful chemicals of the time period.With sulfur vulcanization,Goodyear inventuries.