Name the monomers of backelite and state the polymerisation process of it.

3C₆H₅OH+3CH₂OAcid or base catalyst, heatC₁₈H₁₅O₆+3H₂O

Answer:

The monomers of Bakelite are phenol (C₆H₅OH) and formaldehyde (CH₂O).

FormaldehydeFormaldehydePhenolPhenol

Bakelite is formed by the step-growth (condensation) polymerisation of phenol and formaldehyde. In the presence of an acid or base catalyst and heat, phenol and formaldehyde undergo a series of condensation reactions, releasing water molecules. Initially, a novolac resin (linear polymer) is formed, which further reacts under heat and pressure to form an infusible, cross-linked three-dimensional network (thermosetting polymer). This process is irreversible, making Bakelite a hard, heat-resistant material. The reaction involves the formation of methylene bridges (–CH₂–) between phenol units, leading to a highly cross-linked structure.