We recently purchased several Chinese manufacturered

mouthpieces made from

Bakelite

They are branded as well known US manufactures;

but are in fact infringing and illegal "knockoffs" of the original product.

( We recently received a few pieces for testing purposes

from each of the Chinese firms below ) 

The infringing mouthpiece material is made from a phenolic resin that is known in the industry as Bakelite.

Leo Baekeland, was the inventor of Bakelite in 1907.

Bakelite is made from carbolic acid (phenol) and formaldehyde and is referred to as a phenolic resin.

Bakelite has also appeared under various trade names such as Catalin, Marblette, Prystal, Phenolia and a number of others.

Bakelite  is very hazardous to the environment, It contains incredible amounts of formaldehyde, asbestos and other extremely toxic polymers.

 It is a known fact that exposure to asbestos can lead to lung infections, mesothelioma and other respiratory problems.

Bakelite manufacturing includes jewelry, toys, musical instruments, electrical and insulation products.  

If a Bakelite product breaks, any synthetic materials if ingested may result in considerable and lingering health risks.  .

Bakelite products may appear to be beautiful but are deadly due to the high concentration of formaldehyde, and asbestos.

If you plan on modifying a product made from Bakelite and will be cutting or drilling it, wear protective gloves and a dust mask

Bakelite products may seem safe to handle, but will deteriorate over time releasing the mentioned toxins in small quantities.

Authentic Bakelite oxidizes over the years developing a patina which changes the surface color.

If you suspect a piece is made from Bakelite material run hot water from your household faucet.  After a few seconds hold the piece up to smell it. The vast majority of genuine Bakelite gives off a strong phenol odor similar to paint remover or varnish