Bakelite etymology

Etymology

The word "Bakelite" is derived from the name of its inventor, Leo Hendrik Baekeland, a Belgian-American chemist.

Meaning

Bakelite is a synthetic thermosetting plastic that is known for its durability, electrical resistance, and resistance to heat and chemicals.

Origin

Bakelite was invented in 1907 by Leo Baekeland when he was researching a synthetic substitute for shellac, a natural resin used as an electrical insulator. Baekeland accidentally discovered a new substance that was hard, durable, and resistant to heat and chemicals. He named this new material "Bakelite" after himself.

Bakelite was the first synthetic plastic to be mass-produced, and it quickly became widely used in a variety of applications, including electrical insulators, radio cabinets, kitchenware, and jewelry. Bakelite remained popular until the mid-20th century, when it was gradually replaced by newer and less expensive plastics.

Today, Bakelite is still used in some niche applications, such as electrical insulators and vintage collectibles. It is also prized by collectors for its unique aesthetic and historical significance.

Bakelite relate terms

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