The Chemistry of Novolac Resins. I. A Review on the Use of Models

Abstract

The model systems ranging from the simple phenolic derivatives xylenol and cresol to higher oligomers such as (13), (15) and (17) are being used to study the chemistry of the curing of phenol-formaldehyde resins with hexamethylenetetramine. The key intermediates in these systems have been identified and this knowledge is being used to develop an understanding of the curing of the complex commercial resins.