Thermal degradation is the breakdown of a polymer due to exposure to heat. Heat can cause various chemical changes in the polymer, such as chain scission, crosslinking, and oxidation. Thermal degradation can lead to a deterioration of the polymer's properties, such as decreased molecular weight, loss of strength, and embrittlement. The thermal stability of a polymer is an important consideration in its processing and application.

热降解是由于暴露于热导致的聚合物分解。热会导致聚合物发生各种化学变化，例如断链、交联和氧化。热降解会导致聚合物性能下降，例如分子量降低、强度损失和脆化。聚合物的热稳定性是其加工和应用中的一个重要考虑因素。