Resorcinol is a white crystalline compound which is soluble in water and has a low vapour pressure. It is mostly used in the rubber industry, as well as for high-quality wood bonding applications and in the manufacture of dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, flame retardants, agricultural chemicals, fungicidal creams and lotions, and hair dye formulations. It is released into the environment from a number of anthropogenic sources including production, processing and consumer uses, especially from hair dyes and pharmaceuticals, and localised high concentrations can appear in coal conversion wastewater or wastewater in regions with oil shale mining.

Resorcinol chemistry has been providing valuable properties and products in the development of advanced technologies in the areas of pharmaceuticals, rubber compounds, wood composites and plastics. Notable technologies include steel belted radial tires, resorcinol-formaldehyde-latex adhesives (RFL), a weather proof polycarbonate (Sollx), a super heat resistant polymer (PEN-RTM), the world's strongest fiber (Zylon), sun screens (UV absorbers), Intal (an asthma drug), Ostivone (an osteoporosis drug), Throat Plus (lozenges), Centron and Saheli (oral contraceptive pills), and many more. This new resorcinol book contains information on the chemistry and technologies developed for the usefulness of human needs. Scientists and researchers around the world working in the areas of pharmaceuticals, rubber compounds (tires, hoses, belts), polymers, polymer additives (UV absorbers, flame retardants), composites (polymers and wood), photoresists, or just simply organic chemistry will benefit from this key resorcinol reference.

This sourcebook is the detailed review of the chemistry, manufacturing processes, and uses of resorcinol and its derivatives. Citing over 1,900 references, the author clearly explains the chemical’s complex development, discussing the many tests, techniques, and instruments used.

Issues for 1898-1901 include Review of American chemical research, v. 4-7; 1879-1937, the society's Proceedings.