Definition
A chemical process in which a material such as a resin, adhesive, sealant, or composite matrix changes from a soft or liquid state into a hardened, stable solid through cross-linking of its molecules. Curing may occur through the action of heat, ultraviolet light, a catalyst, a hardener, time, or a combination of these.
Plain English
Cure is the process by which a soft or liquid material sets into its final solid form, becoming strong and stable. Once cured, the material is ready for service and will not return to its earlier soft state.
Context Anchor
Seen in maintenance instructions for paints, sealants, repairs, composite work, and bonding materials.
Derivation
From the Latin curare, meaning 'to take care of' or 'to treat.' The same root gave us 'cure' in the medical sense. In materials work, the idea carried over as 'treating' a substance until it reaches its proper finished condition.
Why Pilots Care
A complete cure ensures the bond or laminate reaches full strength; an incomplete cure can create hidden structural weaknesses.
Intuition Check
Cure does not mean to fix or heal the airplane. Here it means the material itself has finished setting, hardening, or reaching its usable condition.
Example Sentence 1
The fuel tank sealant must cure for at least 24 hours before the tank can be pressure tested.
Example Sentence 2
The repair manual specified a four-hour cure time at 180 degrees before the part could return to service.