Pool balls are typically made of either phenolic resin or polyester resin
. Phenolic resin is a thermosetting plastic that is used by Saluc, the only manufacturer of pool balls to use this material for its manufacturing process
. Polyester resin is another thermoplastic that is used to create billiard balls that are balanced, polished, and durable
. In the past, pool balls were made from wood, ivory, and Bakelite
. However, due to advances in science and technology, alternative materials were sought, and the use of ivory was decreased
. Today, pool balls made from phenolic or polyester resin are the industry standard due to their durability and longevity
