A cross-link connects different segments of a polymer network and restricts their independent motion. Permanent chemical cross-links commonly use covalent bonds; physical associations can instead have finite lifetimes. A connected permanent network can sustain long-time shear stress, whereas an uncrosslinked melt eventually flows. Cross-link density and network structure influence elastomer stiffness.
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A cross-link refers to a bond or connection that links one polymer chain to another, typically forming a three-dimensional network. Cross-linking can occur in various materials, including plastics, gels, and biological molecules such as proteins and DNA. In a broader context, cross-links can also refer to links that connect different sections of a website or different documents, facilitating navigation and information retrieval.