photopolymer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low-frequencyTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “photopolymer” mean?
A type of polymer that changes its properties when exposed to light, used in processes like 3D printing and making printing plates.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of polymer that changes its properties when exposed to light, used in processes like 3D printing and making printing plates.
Any light-sensitive polymer whose chemical or physical properties (e.g., solubility, viscosity, hardness) are altered upon exposure to specific wavelengths of light, enabling it to be used for creating precise patterns or solid objects.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences exist.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both technical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “photopolymer” in a Sentence
[photopolymer] + [noun: resin, plate, material, system]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “photopolymer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to polymerise the resin using UV light.
American English
- The machine will cure the resin layer by layer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In additive manufacturing, the cost of high-performance photopolymer is a key factor.
Academic
The study examined the rheological properties of the novel acrylate-based photopolymer.
Everyday
My 3D printer uses a special liquid resin called photopolymer.
Technical
The stereolithography apparatus (SLA) selectively cures the photopolymer layer by layer with a UV laser.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “photopolymer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “photopolymer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “photopolymer”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'We will photopolymer the model'). The correct verb is 'cure' or 'print using photopolymer'.
- Confusing 'photopolymer' (the material) with 'stereolithography' (the process).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In 3D printing contexts, 'resin' often refers specifically to photopolymer resin. However, not all resins are photopolymers (e.g., epoxy resin).
Standard photopolymers degrade under prolonged UV exposure (sunlight). Special UV-stable formulations are required for outdoor use.
Stereolithography Apparatus. It is a common 3D printing technology that uses a photopolymer resin and a laser to build parts.
Strength varies greatly by formulation. Some are brittle and used for prototypes, while engineering-grade photopolymers can be quite strong and durable.
A type of polymer that changes its properties when exposed to light, used in processes like 3D printing and making printing plates.
Photopolymer is usually technical/scientific in register.
Photopolymer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌfəʊtəʊˈpɒlɪmə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌfoʊtoʊˈpɑːlɪmər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'PHOTO' (light) + 'POLYMER' (plastic) = a plastic that hardens when you shine a light on it.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIQUID TURNING SOLID WITH LIGHT (A fluid material that transforms into a solid object when light acts upon it, like magic).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of a photopolymer?