Definition of Common Polymer Terms

Elastomer:  The term, which is derived from elastic polymer, is often used interchangeably with the term rubber Elastomers are usually thermosets  but may also be thermoplastic. The long polymer chains cross-link during curing, i.e., vulcanizing. The molecular structure of elastomers can be imagined as a 'spaghetti and meatball' structure, with the meatballs signifying cross-links. The elasticity is derived from the ability of the long chains to reconfigure themselves to distribute an applied stress.

Glass Transition Temperature:  When an amorphous polymer is heated, the temperature at which it changes from a glass to the rubbery form is called the glass transition temperature

Amorphous:  Material that has not yet solidified and crystallised. It has no definite shape.

Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP): also known as glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP), is a fiber reinforced polymer made of a plastic matrix reinforced by fine fibers made of glass. It is also known by the name of the reinforcing fibers themselves: fiberglass.

A laminate: is a material that can be constructed by uniting two or more layers of material together. The process of creating a laminate is lamination, which refers to the placing of something between layers of plastic and glueing them with heat and/or pressure, usually with an adhesive.