What type of resin is typically known for its ability to undergo thermal curing?

The type of resin known for its ability to undergo thermal curing is thermoset resin. When thermosetting resins are heated, they undergo a chemical reaction that causes them to harden and set permanently. This curing process alters the molecular structure of the resin, resulting in a material that is rigid and cannot be remelted or reshaped through reheating. Common examples of thermosetting resins include epoxy and polyurethane, which are often used in composite applications due to their excellent bonding properties and resistance to heat and chemicals.

In contrast, thermoplastic resins do not undergo this same type of chemical change during heating. They can be reshaped and remelted multiple times without losing their chemical integrity. Polyester resin, while being a type of thermoset, is a specific variant and does not universally apply to all thermosetting materials. The term composite refers to a combination of materials, which can include both thermoplastics and thermosets, but does not specifically denote the curing process associated with thermosetting resins.