Question

Phenol and formaldehyde undergo condensation to give a polymar (A) which on heating with formaldehyde gives a thermosetting polymer (B). Name the polymers. Write the reactions involved in the formation of (A). What is the structural difference between two polymers?

Answer 1

Phenol–formaldehyde polymers are the oldest synthetic polymers. These are obtained by the condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde in the presence of either an acid or a base catalyst. The reaction starts with the initial formation of o-and/or p-hydroxymethyl phenol derivatives, which further react with phenol to form compounds having rings joined to each other through –CH₂ groups. The initial product could be a linear product – Novolac

Novolac on heating with formaldehyde undergoes cross-linking to form an infusible solid mass called bakelite. It is used for making combs, phonograph records, electrical switches and handles of various utensils.

'A' is Novolac and 'B' is Bakelite.