In billiard games, pool balls are used. Although they can be made from many different materials, most pool balls are made from phenolic resin. Phenolic resin is a combination of formaldehyde & phenol. These two compounds are known for their durability and scratch-resistance. The mixture can withstand high temperatures. The resin will fade and turn yellow if it is exposed to sunlight.
The original pool balls were made from wood. These balls were tough, but they crack with age. Leo Baekeland a chemist invented a new, non-flammable plastic compound in the 19th Century. This material was known as bakelite, and soon replaced wood in making pool balls.
The creation of pool balls was an expensive process. The development of the balls took a lot of time. To get a better understanding of the inside, one could split a ball in half. The balls needed to be formed under high pressure.
Other inventors experimented with chemical substances to create pool balls after the first version of bakelite had been developed. Some of these innovations were considered pioneering moments in the synthetic plastics industry.
Although phenolic rubber is a good choice for pool ball balls, its cost is higher than its counterpart in polyester. The polyester alternative is the best choice for those who don't want pool balls that cost a lot. However, the polyester option will not maintain its color for as long as phenolic resin.
It takes approximately 23 days to make a phenolic ball. Each step is carefully examined to ensure that there are no impurities. Additionally, phenolic rubber balls can be stored at lower temperatures that polyester balls. They are also more durable than polyester balls and can be stored for longer periods of times.
Aramith is a leading manufacturer of phenolic resin pools balls. Their phenolic balls are very durable and hold their shine for up to 40 years. They are also more affordable than polyester balls. Aramith Premier offers superior resin technology and is the best option for those looking to upgrade to better quality balls.
Iszy is another pool ball maker that uses a combination phenolic-polyester resin. These pool balls are more affordable than phenolic but they don’t keep their shine as long. Polyester balls are more susceptible to fading and burning spots on the table. Nonetheless, they are still a good option for beginners.
One more manufacturer is Predator Arcos, which uses a proprietary chemical compound to create a number of phenolic resin balls. These balls can also be through-hardened which makes them more dense. The Iszy marble swirl set is for those who wish to spend less.
Many companies want to recreate the ivory billiards ball experience. The ivory material is no more available. Modern pool balls use a mixture of formaldehyde-phenolic resin. At the moment, around 85% of pool balls on the market are phenolic.