Loose end

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-006768",
  "term": "Loose end",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A polymer chain within a network that has only one end connected to the network structure, with the other end free. These chains do not contribute to the elastic properties of the network in the same way as chains connected at both ends. They can affect the swelling behavior and mechanical strength of gels.",
  "subject": "Polymer",
  "see_also": [
    "network"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2007, 79, 1801. 'Definitions of terms relating to the structure and processing of sols, gels, networks, and inorganic-organic hybrid materials (IUPAC Recommendations 2007)' on page 1820 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200779101801)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/loose-end/"
}