Pool balls can be used in billiards. Although they can be made from many different materials, most pool balls are made from phenolic resin. A mixture of formaldehyde (phenol) and phenol is called phenolic resin. These two compounds are well known for their durability as well as scratch resistance. This mixture is also highly resistant to heat. The resin will start to yellow when exposed to the sunlight.
Wood was the first material used to make pool balls. These balls were strong, but they became crackly with age. Leo Baekeland, an engineer and chemist created a new type of plastic that was non-flammable in the 19th century. This new material was quickly called bakelite. It soon replaced wood for the manufacture of pool balls.
It was expensive to create pool balls. It took a long time to develop the balls. You could also cut a ball in half if you wanted to know what inside. The balls had eventually to be molded under extremely high pressures.
After the development of the first form of bakelite, other inventors began exploring chemical substances for making pool balls. These innovations were some of the most important in the history of synthetic plastics.
Although phenolic rubber is a good choice for pool ball balls, its cost is higher than its counterpart in polyester. The polyester alternative may be the best option for you if you don’t have the budget to spend on pool balls. The polyester alternative will not keep its color as long as phenolic.
The process of manufacturing a phenolic resin ball is a 23-day process. Each step is carefully examined to ensure that there are no impurities. Also, phenolic resin balls can store in lower temperatures than polyester balls. They are also more durable than polyester balls and can be stored for longer periods of times.
Aramith is one of the largest manufacturers of phenolic resin pool balls. The balls made from phenolic resin are durable and will retain their shine for up 40 years. They are also much less expensive than polyester balls. If you are looking for a higher-quality set of balls, the Aramith Premier includes superior resin technology.
Iszy is another poolball manufacturer, using a mix of phenolic and polymer resins. These pool balls may be cheaper than phenolic ball, but they won't hold their shine for nearly as long. Polyester balls are also more likely to fade and create burn spots on your table. These balls are still good for beginners.
Predator Arcos also manufactures phenolic resin balls. They use a proprietary chemical mixture to create them. These balls are also harder than normal, making them more dense. You can opt for the Iszy marble swirl set, if you're looking to save money.
Many companies are trying to replicate the ivory-billiard ball experience. However, ivory material is no long available. Modern pool balls are made of phenolic and formaldehyde. The market currently has 85% phenolic pool balls.