What characterizes phenolic materials?

Phenolic materials are characterized as thermosetting resins, which means they undergo a chemical change when heated and cannot be remolded into new shapes after curing. This property allows phenolic resins to have excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance, and mechanical strength, making them suitable for various applications, including adhesives, coatings, and composite materials in industries such as construction and automotive.

Phenolic resins are created by polymerizing phenol with formaldehyde, and their inherent characteristics make them less flexible compared to other plastics. They are extensively used in manufacturing products that require durability and resistance to heat and moisture, further supporting their classification as thermosetting materials. Other options describe materials that do not accurately reflect the properties or applications of phenolic materials, such as flexibility or biodegradability, which are not inherent traits of thermosetting resins. Additionally, using phenolic compounds solely in textiles does not encompass the broad range of applications they serve.