Phenol-formaldehyde resin

Synonyms

Formaldehyde phenol polymer; Formaldehyde, phenol polymer; Paraformaldehyde, formaldehyde, phenol polymer; Paraformaldehyde, phenol polymer; Phenol formaldehyde resin; Phenol, formaldehyde polymer; Phenol, polymer with formaldehyde; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Formaldehyde Resins

Description

Gray to black solid when cured; [Hawley]

Sources/Uses

Used as a bonding agent in the production of insulation, plywood, and other building materials; Molded products are used to make automotive parts, electrical components, and laminated surfaces. [LaDou (2nd ed.), p. 521] Synthetic thermosetting polymer made from reaction of phenol with aqueous 37-50% formaldehyde; Used for molded and cast items, bonding powders, ion exchange, laminating and impregnating, oil-well sands, paint and baked enamel coatings, and for various building material, aerospace, automotive, mechanical, and electrical applications; [Hawley]

Comments

Phenolics are polymers formed from the reaction of phenol and aldehydes, usually formaldehyde. They are either single-stage resins with an alkaline catalyst or two-stage resins with an acid catalyst and the curing agent hexamethylene tetramine. Phenolics can cause allergic contact dermatitis. [LaDou (2nd ed.), p. 521] Causes allergic dermatitis on topical exposure to human skin; [RTECS]

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

Reference Link #2

Yes

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Contact dermatitis, allergic

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Molding and Core Making
• Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides)
• Plastic Composites Manufacturing
• Semiconductor Manufacturing

Activities

Activities with risk of exposure:

• Sculpturing plastics