Paint types, generic
Description
A liquid mixture composed of a colorant dispersed in a binder. Paint dries to form a decorative or protective film. It can be applied with a brush, roller, sprayer, or by dipping. Entries for many types of early arti paints include: Oil, Wax, Casein, Gouache, Tempera, Watercolor and acrylic.
- Synthetic binders: .
The large selection of commercial paints used for the interior and exterior of buildings often contain Acrylic Alkyd, Latex, Epoxy or Vinyl resins. Confusingly, are typically called emulsion or latex paints when the contain water as a solvent. There is a technical difference between the two terms, but
- emulsion: two or more liquids in a uniform mixture
- latex: particles suspended in a uniform mixture
Both words have been used interchangeably by the manufacturers. Of more importance for the application and durability of the paint is the type of polymer that is used. As such many are compared below
| Composition | Definition | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water-based paint - versatile, easily diluted, easy clean-up and low in odor | |||
| acrylic | A mixture of pigments, acrylic resin dispersed in water. | Similar to characteristics of emulsions, plus on drying the resin forms a durable film that is elastic, water-repellant and durable in sunlight; they cover small cracks well and can protect against corrosion | Generally expensive; dried color is darker and less intense that liquid color |
| waterborne alkyd | An emulsification of an alkyd-acrylic dispersion | Produces a smooth glossy finish that is excellent for interior trim; quick drying; easy soap and water clean-up; low VOCs, durable after drying | |
| PVA (vinyl emulsion or latex) | May contain vinyl acetate monomer in water or recycled vinyl particles | These paints are very economical and work well indoors | Dry paint cannot withstands repeated exposure to water |
| silicone emulsions | A mixiture of silicon resins emulsified in water | These paints are highly durable, elastic and provide water vapor pemeability. They adhere well to wood, concrete and metals. The dry surrface resists dirt and mildew. The are optimum for exterior facades. | Generally expensive |
| Organic -solvent based paint - gives reliable, smooth finish but difficult clean-up and potentially long dry times | |||
| Alkyd | A mixture of a polyhydric alcohol and a polybasic acid in a petroleum solvent. The two components react with oxygen to form a hard uniform surface. | Work well on plastered surfaces, woods and metals; can be painted over laterx without sanding; are non-toxic and waterproof | Requires ventilation; tends to spatter; strong chemical odor; once dry it may chip and crack, discolors with time; must be cleaned with paint thinner |
| Enamel | Usually includes petroleum spirit, white lead, oil, and resinous materials | Can produce shiny, high-gloss surfaces. Can dry to touch in 15 minutes | |
| Oil | Inluded linseed oil that is usually mixed in a petroleum based solvent | Doof durability works well in high-moisutre areas, has good leveling and cann produce a glossy finish | Extended drying time; Produces toxic fumes. May turn yellow with age |
| Inorganic based | |||
| Silicate | Since 2002 silicate paints colorants, a silica solution and an alkali silicate (water glass) that produces a polysilicate coating on any surface | These paints bond to the substrate suraface rather than make a film. They are durable, highly stable, breathable and resistant to sunlight, weather and fire. | Do not work well on glass, ceramic, stone, metals,and any painted surface. May cause irritation on contact. |
| Whitewash | a mineral paint containing chalk | ||
| Adhesive based | |||
| Casein | a protein based glue dissoved in water. | Generally used on canvas panels, illustration boards, paper, wood and masonite. | Non-eleastic, brittle, ; cannot withstand moisture or impacts |
| Dextrinated | Used as a decrorative paint, such as watercolors | Low resistance to weathering | |