Index

Introduction
Bakelite was the first plastic made from synthetic components. It is
thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin, forms from condensation
reaction of phenol and formaldehyde.

It was developed by the Belgian American chemist Leo Baekeland in

1907. The creation of Bakelite was revolutionary for its electrical non
conductivity and heat resistant properties in electrical non conductivity
and heat resistant properties electrical circuits, radio and such diverse
products such as kitchen ware,jewellery,childrens toys and firearms. It
can be moulded very quickly and mouldings are smooth , retain their
shape and are resistant to heat, scratches ,and destructive solvents. They
may smell slightly under conditions of extreme humidity or perpetual
dampness. When burnt or rubbed Bakelite has a distinctive, acrid, sickly-
sweet or fishy odour.
 AIM
Preparation of Bakelite using phenol and Formaldehyde.

Theory
C6H5OH-HCHO resin or P_F resin are an important class of polymers
which are formed by condensation polymerisation of phenol and
formaldehyde in adidic or alkaline me dium. The reactions are as follows:

e
 Chemicals Required
1. Phenol – 2 g
2. HCHO 40% Solution – 2.5 mL
3. Glacial Acetic Acid – 5mL;
4. Concentrated HCl/H2SO4 – 8 mL

Procedure
1. Place 5 mL of glacial acetic acid and 2.5 mL of 40 % aq
formaldehyde solution in a 100 mL beaker. Add 2 g phenol safely.
2. Wrap the beaker with a wet cloth or place it in a 250 mL beaker
having small amount of water in it.
3. Add conc. HCl drop wise with vigorous stirring by a glass rod till a
pink coloured gummy mass appears.
4. The Pink gummy mass is filtered using