How does Bakelite, characterized as a thermoset, behave upon reheating compared to Celluloid, a thermoplastic?

Bakelite will char and decompose instead of melting or reforming upon reheating.

The distinction between Bakelite and Celluloid lies in their response to thermal cycles, defining them as thermoset and thermoplastic, respectively. Celluloid, being a thermoplastic, possesses the property of softening when heated, allowing it to be molded and reshaped repeatedly—this is why it was practical for mass production applications. Conversely, Bakelite is a thermoset. This means that once it has undergone its initial molding and curing process, the chemical bonds formed are essentially permanent. If significant heat is applied afterward, the material does not soften or reform; instead, it undergoes irreversible chemical degradation, resulting in charring and decomposition. This stability at high temperatures was precisely what made Bakelite superior for electrical applications.