Phenolics are particularly suitable for electrical applications because of their good dielectric properties, dimensional stability and resistance to moisture. Phenolic-based compounds are used in laminating applications, for example, for decorative laminates for counter tops and wall coverings. A number of industrial applications, including heat setting adhesives, abrasive wheels, and sandpaper, are possible owing to their good adhesive properties and bonding strength. Phenolics are also used in varnishes and protective coatings. They also have better hardness and tensile strength than phenolics, but their impact strength and moisture resistance are lower.
Ureas have lower hardness, heat resistance and moisture resistance than melamines.
Amino resins are used in the fabrication of industrial and decorative laminates, adhesives, protective coatings, paper manufacture, and moulding compounds. Melamine is one of the thermosetting plastics that can be made in unlimited colours. Articles fabricated from melamines are rigid and have one of the hardest surface finishes of any plastic material. Because of this they are widely used for the production of decorative laminates, which are usually assembled from a core of phenolic resin-impregnated paper and a melamine impregnated overlay sheet. The system is cured with hot pressing to produce such items as counter, cabinet or table tops.