Billiards use pool balls. They are made of several different materials, but are usually crafted from phenolic resin. Phenolic is a mixture between formaldehyde, phenol. These two compounds can be trusted for their strength and resistance to scratches. The mixture is also extremely resistant to high temperatures. When exposed to the sun, the resin will begin to fade and yellow.
Wooden was used for the first 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.
The creation of pool balls was an expensive process. The ball development process took a long time. To see the contents of the balls, you could cut them in half. The balls had to be moulded under high pressures.
After the initial version of bakelite was invented, other inventors began to experiment with chemical compounds to make pool balls. These inventions were pioneering moments for the synthetic plastics industry.
Although phenolic resin is an excellent option for pool balls however, its price is much higher than that of its polyester counterpart. If you are not interested in spending a lot of money on pool balls, the polyester alternative is probably the right choice for you. The polyester option won't last as long as the 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 resin balls can be stored in lower temperature spaces than polyester balls. Consequently, they are also more durable and last for longer periods of time.
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 much less expensive 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 poolball manufacturer, using a mix of phenolic and polymer resins. Although these types of pool balls are cheaper than phenolic balls, they don't maintain their shine for as long. Polyester balls are more prone to burn spots and fading. However, they are still a great option for beginners.
Predator Arcos is another manufacturer that uses a proprietary chemical to make phenolic resin balls. These balls are also more dense because they have been through-hardened. You can also choose the Iszy marble swirl set if you want to spend less.
Many companies are trying to replicate the ivory-billiard ball experience. Unfortunately, ivory is no longer readily available. Modern pool balls use a mixture of formaldehyde-phenolic resin. At the moment, around 85% of pool balls on the market are phenolic.