What happens to thermoplastic material when heated?

When thermoplastic materials are heated, they undergo a significant physical change characterized by melting. This type of material is designed to soften upon heating, allowing it to be easily molded or shaped. Unlike thermosetting plastics, which become permanently hard once formed and cannot be remelted, thermoplastics can be heated and reshaped multiple times without altering their chemical structure. This property makes them versatile for various applications, including firefighting equipment where they may need to adapt to high temperatures. The ability to melt also allows for easy recycling of these materials, as they can be reprocessed and reused effectively.