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Phenolic is a type of thermosetting plastic made from phenol and formaldehyde, which undergo a chemical reaction to form a durable, rigid material. The manufacturing process involves combining phenol with formaldehyde under heat and pressure to create a resin, which is then mixed with fillers such as wood fibers, cotton, or other materials to form a solid, molded product. Phenolic resins are commonly used in the production of laminated sheets, circuit boards, electrical components, and friction materials like brake linings and clutch discs. They are also used in the automotive, aerospace, and electrical industries for components requiring high strength, heat resistance, and electrical insulation.

The advantages of phenolic materials include their excellent heat resistance, chemical stability, and electrical insulating properties, making them ideal for use in high-temperature environments. They also offer good dimensional stability, resistance to abrasion, and are relatively low cost, especially when used in products like electrical insulators and laminated sheets. However, phenolic has some disadvantages: it is brittle and can crack or break under impact or stress, making it less suitable for applications that require flexibility or high-impact resistance. It also tends to degrade when exposed to prolonged moisture or certain chemicals, and its surface can be prone to discoloration. Despite these limitations, phenolic remains a widely used material due to its combination of durability, heat resistance, and affordability.