1. Chemical Structure
Thermosetting Acrylic Resin: usually a three-dimensional network structure formed by a cross-linking reaction. Once cured, it cannot be re-melted by heating or other methods.
Thermoplastic Acrylic Resin: composed of linear or low-crosslinked polymer chains, it can soften and flow when heated, and re-solidify after cooling.
2. Processing Method
Thermosetting Acrylic Resin: usually processed by molding, pouring or coating, it will form a hard material after curing, which is suitable for applications requiring high strength and heat resistance.
Thermoplastic Acrylic Resin: can be processed by injection molding, extrusion and other methods, suitable for large-scale production and preparation of various shapes.
3. Performance Characteristics
Thermosetting Acrylic Resin: has excellent chemical resistance, thermal stability and mechanical strength, and is widely use in coatings, composite materials and other fields.
Thermoplastic Acrylic Resin: easy to process and shape, but may not be as stable as thermosetting resin under high temperature and strong solvent environment.
4. Recyclability
Thermosetting Acrylic Resin: once cured, it cannot be reoricessed or recycled, causing certain environmental problems.
Thermoplastic Acrylic Resin: can be remelted at high tmperatures, making them more attractive for recycling and reuse.