Phenolic Resins
Phenolic resins represent the most important product manufactured by UCP Chemicals, accounting for about 40% of its total sales.
Phenolic resins are manufactured using a combination of phenol and formaldehyde. Principally speaking, a distinction is made between highly reactive aqueous resole resins (alkaline polymerization) and highly polymer, thermally stable, solid state novolaks (acid catalyzed polymerization). Resoles are used, for example, as binders in the wood industry and in the production of mineral wool. Both types of phenlic resins are used in the abrasives and foundry segments, depending on the intended purpose.
Phenolic resins are used in the most diverse range of branches and products. Applications range from binders in wood processing and heat insulating materials and the ingredients found in glues and paints to bakelite powder in the foundry and abrasive industries, or insulating materials for electrical devices.
UCP Chemicals produces more than 48,000 tons of phenolic resins annually.
