Advantages of using thermoplastic thermoset composites

Thermoplastic composites are becoming increasingly popular in a high cost driven market. Thermoplastic composites consist of a thermoplastic matrix and various reinforcements such as short, long or continuous glass or carbon fibers. Methods of producing thermoplastic composites include injection molding, Compression molding, tape placement, winding and thermoforming.
  
In contrast to cross-linked thermosets, where the curing reaction cannot be reversed, thermoplastics harden when cooled but retain their plasticity; that is, they remelt and can be re-melted by reheating them above their processing temperature Molded, less expensive thermoplastic matrices offer lower processing temperatures, but also limited use temperatures.
  
Take inspiration from a menu of engineering and commodity plastics such as polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC ), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyamide (PA or Nylon) and Polypropylene (PP). A large number of commercial products, such as athletic shoes, orthotics, and medical prosthetics, benefit from the toughness and moisture resistance of these resins, as do automotive intake manifolds and other hood components.