Fenolformaldehydová

Fenolformaldehydová is the Czech term for phenol formaldehyde, a synthetic polymer. It is one of the earliest man-made plastics, produced by the reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. This reaction, known as polycondensation, leads to the formation of a thermosetting resin. Depending on the reaction conditions, it can be produced as a viscous liquid or a solid.

When heated, phenol formaldehyde undergoes an irreversible chemical change, hardening into a rigid, infusible material. This property makes it suitable for applications where heat resistance and dimensional stability are required. It is known for its excellent electrical insulation properties, good chemical resistance, and hardness. Early trade names for this material included Bakelite, which was one of the first completely synthetic plastics to be commercialized.

Phenol formaldehyde resins have been used in a wide range of applications. Historically, they were used for electrical components, automotive parts, and household items like handles for cookware and radios. Due to its insulating properties, it found use in circuit boards. It is also used as a binder in materials like brake pads, clutch facings, and grinding wheels, as well as in the production of plywood and insulation materials. While some of its traditional uses have been replaced by newer materials, it remains relevant in certain specialized industrial applications.