Pool balls can be used in billiards. They can be made of many different materials, but they are most commonly made from phenolic. A mixture of formaldehyde (phenol) and phenol is called phenolic resin. 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.
Wooden was used for the first pool balls. These balls were durable, but became cracked with age. In the 19th century, a chemist named Leo Baekeland invented a new plastic compound that was not flammable. This material was soon known as bakelite.
Pool balls were a complicated process. The process of creating the balls was tedious. 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 option is a better choice if you don't want to spend a lot on pool balls. However, the polyester option will not maintain its color for as long as phenolic resin.
The manufacturing of a phenolic rubber ball takes about 23 days. Each step is carefully examined to ensure that there are no impurities. The phenolic resin balls can also be stored at lower temperatures than the polyester balls. They are more durable, last longer and are thus more long-lasting.
Aramith is one of the largest manufacturers of phenolic resin pool balls. Their phenolic pool balls are extremely durable and retain their shine up to 40 year. 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 manufacturer of pool balls. It uses a mixture of phenolic as well as polyester resin. Although these types of pool balls are cheaper than phenolic balls, they don't maintain their shine for as long. Polyester balls are more susceptible to fading and burning spots on the table. 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 through-hardened to make them more dense. You can opt for the Iszy marble swirl set, if you're looking to save money.
Many companies are attempting to replicate the ivory billiard ball experience. However, the ivory material has been discontinued. Instead, modern pool balls are manufactured from a mixture of phenolic resin and formaldehyde. The market currently has 85% phenolic pool balls.