What is a phenol-formaldehyde polymer? Write down one polymer name of this category and also explain its preparation,properties,and uses.

(N/A) Phenol-formaldehyde polymers are the oldest synthetic polymers. These are obtained by the condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde in the presence of either an acid or a base catalyst.
One common polymer in this category is $Bakelite$.
$Preparation$:
The reaction starts with the initial formation of $o-$ and/or $p-$hydroxymethylphenol derivatives,which further react with phenol to form compounds having rings joined to each other through $-CH_2-$ groups. The initial product could be a linear product called $Novolac$,which is used in paints. On further heating with formaldehyde,$Novolac$ forms a cross-linked fusible product known as $Bakelite$.
$Properties$:
$Bakelite$ is a thermosetting polymer. It is hard,rigid,and has high thermal stability and electrical insulation properties.
$Uses$:
It is used for making electrical switches,handles of various utensils,computer discs,and phonograph records.