Main-chain scission

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-006924",
  "term": "Main-chain scission",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The process of breaking covalent bonds within the main chain of a polymer molecule. This leads to a decrease in the polymer's molecular weight and can significantly alter its physical properties. It is a common degradation mechanism for many polymers, often initiated by heat, light, or chemical agents.",
  "subject": "Polymer",
  "see_also": [
    "macromolecule"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2004, 76, 889. 'Definitions of terms relating to reactions of polymers and to functional polymeric materials (IUPAC Recommendations 2003)' on page 892 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200476040889)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/main-chain-scission/"
}