Describe the processes of solvent/solute interaction that lead to swelling and, in some polymers, dissolving of a plastic by a solvent

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Solvent molecules form secondary bonds with the polymer molecules, usually at sites on the polymer that are chemically similar to the nature of the solvent. When many of these secondary bonds form, there is sufficient energy in the molecules to allow the penetration of the solvent molecules into the polymeric structures. This causes swelling. If even more of the secondary bonds between solvent molecules and the polymer are formed, or if the secondary bonds are extremely strong, then the total polymer molecules can be separated from the other polymer molecules and total solvation occurs.

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