Introduction to polymer forming

Polymer forming involves a number of physical and sometimes chemical changes that need to be understood. Because deformation and flow are involved in all shaping operations, the concepts 

Polymer forming began with the chemical modification of natural polymers such as natural rubber vulcanization and cellulose acetylation. The first efforts to shape natural polymers and early synthetic ones into useful products such as textile fibers and films for packaging date from the middle of the 19 century. 

Plastication, during which the polymer changes state from solid to hquid. 

Forming, during which the polymer is formed into a specified shape by flowing under pressure, e.g., into molds or through dies. 

Solidification, during which the material solidifies, and possibly undergoes other post-forming operation such as demolding, trimming, cutting, polishing, etc. 

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