Abstract: The foreign research work on the curing behavior of novolac-type phenolic resins were reviewed, including numeral simulation and experimental studies using infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscope. The modification studies of novolac-type phenolic resins were also summarized. For example, the toughness was improved by adding polyamide and phenolic compatibilizer; the flame retardancy was enhanced by diazo coupling or esterification; the thermal and mechanical properties were increased interpenetration, and the thermal stability was promoted by blending with inorganic nanoparticles and layers.

Key words: novolac-type phenolic resin, curing, modification, nanocomposite, epoxy phenolic resin