What Does Crosslinking Mean?
Crosslinking refers to the linking of one polymer chain to another. Crosslinking leads to the polymer chains forming a three-dimensional network structure creating insoluble and infusible polymers. Polyethylene (PE) is one such polymer that is crosslinked to achieve desirable results. Crosslinking changes the nature of the plastic to a more durable non-melting polymer matrix i.e. from thermoplastic to thermoset. PE is thermoplastic in nature and thus capable of being re-processed. It loses its critical physical properties at high temperature making its application limited.
Crosslinking of PE helps create a more durable polymer matrix increasing its range of applications.
