A-stage - This is a very early stage in the reaction of certain thermosetting resins where the molecular weight is low and the resin is still soluble in some liquids and still fusible.

Addition Polymerization - Polymerization in which monomers are linked together without the splitting off of water or other simple molecules.

Additive - A substance compounded into a resin to enhance or improve certain characteristics.

Aging - The effect on materials exposed to an environment for an interval of time.

Alloy - Two or more immiscible polymers united, usually by another component, to form a plastic resin having enhanced performance properties.

Anti-Blocking Agents - These additives are used to prevent the adhesion of two touching layers of film during fabrication and storage.

Anti-fogger - An additive that prevents condensation of moisture on glass and other transparent materials, such as windshields or lenses.

Antioxidants & Antiozonants - These additives are used to prevent the negative effects of oxygen and ozone on the resin materials.

Antistats - The use of these additives will eliminate or lessen static electricity.

B-stage - This describes an intermediate stage of reaction where the material will soften when heated and swells in the presence of certain liquids, but may not completely fuse or dissolve. The resin is usually supplied in this uncured state.

BMC - Bulk Molding Compounds are used as a premix in composite manufacturing. A BMC consists of a mixture of resin, reinforcements, inert fillers, and other additives which form a putty-like, preformed shape, rope, or sheet.

Binder - A resin or other material used to hold particles together. The binder is the continuous phase in a reinforced plastic which provides mechanical strength or ensures uniform consistency, solidification, or adhesion to a surface coating. Typical binder materials include resin, glue, gum, and casein.

Biocides & Fungicides - These additives act as pesticides and are used to inhibit the growth of fungus and other pests.

Block Copolymer - A copolymer in which there are repeated sequences of polymeric segments of different chemical structure.

Blowing & Foaming Agents - Upon addition to plastics or rubbers and then heating, this chemical generates gases which results in the resin assuming a cellular structure.

Blow Molding - Method of fabrication in which a warm, plastic parison (hollow tube) is placed between the two halves of a mold cavity and forced to assume the shape of that mold cavity by use of air pressure.

Bulk Density - The weight per unit volume of a loosely packed material, such as a molding powder or pellets.

Bulk Factor - The ratio of the volume of a given mass of molding material to its volume in the molded form.

Neither TPG nor any of its affiliates makes any warranty, expressed or implied, or accepts any liability in connection with this information or its use. This information is furnished upon the condition that the person receiving it shall make his own tests to determine the suitability thereof for his particular purpose.