5.10: Cross-Linking

The formation of covalent bonds which hold portions of several polymer chains together is called cross-linking. Extensive cross-linking results in a random three-dimensional network of interconnected chains, as shown in the figure. As one might expect, extensive cross-linking produces a substance which has more rigidity, hardness, and a higher melting point than the equivalent polymer without cross-linking. Almost all the hard and rigid plastics we use are cross-linked. These include Bakelite, which is used in many electric plugs and sockets, melamine, which is used in plastic crockery, and epoxy resin glues.

Below is a video of the formation of Polyurethane Foam. 

Polyether polyol, a blowing agent, which adds a gas to the mixture to produce a foam, silicone surfactant, and a catalyst is mixed with a second liquid contains a polyfunctional isocyanate. The polyol and the polyfunctional isocyanate react to form polyurethane - a very hard substance when dried. The general reaction is shown below: 

In the reaction in the video, each R¹ group has multiple isocyanate groups; the reactants are polyfunctional. Thus there is a high degree of cross-linking in the polyurethane. This causes the foam to become rigid after cooling.