Which type of material will not melt but fuses by heat during a fire?

Thermoset materials are characterized by their unique chemical structure, which causes them to undergo a curing process during production. Once cured, these materials become hard and rigid and do not melt upon exposure to heat. Instead of melting, thermosets may degrade or char when exposed to high temperatures, but they retain their form and strength even under severe heat conditions.

This property is in sharp contrast to thermoplastic materials, which can soften and melt when heated. Understanding the behavior of materials in fire conditions is crucial for fire safety professionals, as it informs decisions about materials used in construction and other applications. Recognizing that thermosets maintain their integrity up to certain temperatures can help in assessing potential hazards in a fire and choosing appropriate materials for fire-resistive applications.