Polymerization Shrinkage

Polymerization shrinkage is the decrease in size and volume of a material that occurs when a polymer chain forms by chemical bonding. This shrinkage can measure hundreds of parts per million and is a primary cause of dimensional stability in cured components. Polymerization shrinkage also affects the mechanical properties of a material such as toughness, flexural modulus, and strength. These changes can help engineers and manufacturers decide on the most suitable material for their application. By taking into account these variables, the durability and performance of the end product can be improved.