Bakelite The tradename of a synthetic resin discovered by the Belgian-born chemist Leo Baekeland, made by the condensation reaction of methanal (formaldehyde) and phenol to form large polymer molecules. It is a thermosetting plastic – in fact, the first modern synthetic plastic ever made (1909). A hard, strong material, it is used as an electrical insulator, an adhesive, and a paint binder. Related category INDUSTRIAL CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |