| Formula / Notation | (C7H6O2)n |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 9003-35-4 |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Melting Point | Does not melt (thermoset) |
| Boiling Point | Does not melt (thermoset) |
| Density | 1.24–1.32 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in all solvents (cured) |
| Appearance | dark brown to black hard solid |
| Also Known As | Bakelite; phenolic resin; novolac; resole; PF resin |
| Category | Polymers & Plastics |
What is Phenol-formaldehyde resin?
Phenol-formaldehyde resin (PF resin), known commercially as Bakelite, was the first fully synthetic thermosetting polymer, developed by Leo Baekeland in 1907. It is produced by condensation polymerisation of phenol with formaldehyde under acidic (novolac) or alkaline (resole) conditions. Once cured, phenolic resins form a hard, thermally stable, electrically insulating crosslinked network that cannot be remelted. Bakelite revolutionised modern manufacturing as the first widely used synthetic plastic.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: phenolic resin
Other Names / Synonyms: Bakelite; phenolic resin; novolac; resole; PF resin
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Does not melt (thermoset) |
| Boiling Point | Does not melt (thermoset) |
| Density | 1.24–1.32 g/cm³ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in all solvents (cured) |
| Appearance | dark brown to black hard solid |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Phenol-formaldehyde resin (PF resin), known commercially as Bakelite, was the first fully synthetic thermosetting polymer, developed by Leo Baekeland in 1907. It is produced by condensation polymerisation of phenol with formaldehyde under acidic (novolac) or alkaline (resole) conditions. Once cured, phenolic resins form a hard, thermally stable, electrically insulating crosslinked network that cannot be remelted. Bakelite revolutionised modern manufacturing as the first widely used synthetic plastic.
Electrical insulators and switches. Printed circuit board substrate (FR-4 core layers). Brake pads and friction materials. Plywood and particleboard binder. Moulded handles and knobs. Laminate countertops and flooring.
Cured resin is inert and non-toxic. Uncured resin contains phenol and formaldehyde — both toxic and irritant (formaldehyde is a known carcinogen). Processing fumes require adequate ventilation. Consult SDS before use.
The formula or notation for Phenol-formaldehyde resin is: (C7H6O2)n