Bakelite is a cross-linked condensation polymer of phenol (C6H5−OH) and formaldehyde (HCHO). It is thermosetting plastic used for making electrical switches and switch boards.
Bakelite is formed from the reaction of phenol and formaldehyde. Basically it is formed in two steps. In the first step formaldehyde reacts with phenol and produces o-Hydroxymethyl phenol. Then o-Hydroxy methyl phenol and phenol come together and form Bakelite. A thermosetting plastic is a polymer that irreversibly becomes rigid when heated. Such a material is also known as a thermoset or thermosetting polymer.