We have introduced the two main types of paint in other blogs: water-based paint and oil-based paint. As well as the application guide of water-based paint and the storage precautions of oil-based paint. But in the actual selection process, do you always hear the salesperson emphasize to you that this paint belongs to a certain type and contains a certain polymer material. At this time, I believe most people are confused and even feel very confused: What is the difference between them? Today, let us take you to identify these paint varieties through their characteristics to help you make a normal choice.
How to Identify and Distinguish Paints of Different Material Types?
Everyone knows that coatings or paints are composed of multiple components. An important component of this is the adhesive, which contains a variety of polymer material types. Different polymers have unique properties to form different paint varieties. This is why professional paint salesmen will especially introduce the paint polymer varieties of the products. The 10 common different polymer paints are:
- Acrylic latex paint,
- Solvent-based oil paint,
- Polyurethane paint,
- Nitro paint,
- Epoxy paint,
- Amino paint,
- Alkyd paint,
- Unsaturated polyester paint,
- Vinyl paint,
- Phenolic paint.
Let’s take a deeper look at these paint types and learn how to identify and distinguish them.
Acrylic Latex Paint:
Water Based Paints
Acrylic latex paint is a water-based paint made from acrylic resin. It is known for its moderate cost, good performance adjustability, no organic solvent release, durability, flexibility and resistance to cracking and peeling. It is a category of paint products that has developed rapidly in recent times. These paints combine the advantages of acrylic polymers with the advantages of easy cleaning with water. Acrylic latex paints dry quickly and have low volatile organic compounds (VOC) content, making them environmentally friendly and safe for indoor use. They have excellent color retention, ensuring bright colors and long-lasting durability. This paint is highly resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and weathering, making it ideal for exterior surfaces.
- How to Identify:
Label Check: Look for “Acrylic” or “Latex” on the label.
Consistency: Thicker consistency compared to solvent-based paints.
Odor: The odor is mild and not too pungent. - Best Uses:
Acrylic latex paints are ideal for interior walls, ceilings and exterior walls where flexibility and weather resistance are important. They are particularly suitable for areas with large temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight.
Solvent-based paint:
How to store and dispose of solvent based paint
Solvent-based paint is made of natural or synthetic oils and solvents. Solvent-based oil paint has excellent weather resistance, high mechanical properties, and is known for its high gloss and excellent adhesion. It is a type of paint coating that is developing rapidly. These coatings take longer to dry, making the application smoother and smoothing brush marks and flaws. According to the drying and curing method, it can be divided into self-drying thermoplastic paint and cross-linking curing thermosetting paint. The former belongs to non-conversion coatings and the latter belongs to conversion coatings.
However, they contain higher concentrations of volatile organic compounds and emit a strong odor during the application process. The construction is more troublesome, and many varieties also require heating or radiation curing, which has higher requirements for environmental conditions. Generally, better equipment and more skilled painting techniques are required. And a thick coating film cannot be obtained in one application, and the fullness of the coating film is not ideal.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “oil-based” or “alkyd resin” on the label.
Consistency: thinner and more fluid.
Odor: strong solvent smell. - Best uses:
Solvent-based paints are highly resistant to moisture and are ideal for surfaces that require a strong, washable object. Ideal for trim, doors, automotive, cabinets, and high-traffic areas that require a durable, high-gloss finish. They are also ideal for exterior metal and wood surfaces that require weatherproofing, such as: architectural coatings, plastic coatings, e-coats, road marking paints, and more.
Polyurethane paint:
Polyurethane polymer paints type
Polyurethane paint is a common type of paint currently, known for its excellent durability and chemical resistance, abrasion resistance and water resistance. Polyurethane paint can form a hard protective coating with strong wear resistance, making it the first choice for areas with high traffic volume and surfaces that need to be cleaned frequently. These coatings can provide a glossy, transparent coating that enhances the natural beauty of wood and other substrates.
It can be divided into two-component polyurethane paint and one-component polyurethane paint. Two-component polyurethane paint is generally composed of isocyanate prepolymer (also called low molecular weight urethane polymer) and hydroxyl-containing resin, usually referred to as curing agent component and main agent component. There are many varieties and a wide range of applications. According to the different hydroxyl-containing components, it can be divided into acrylic polyurethane, alkyd polyurethane, polyester polyurethane, polyether polyurethane, epoxy polyurethane and other varieties.
The main application directions are wood coatings, automotive repair coatings, anti-corrosion coatings, floor coatings, electronic coatings, special coatings, etc.
The disadvantage is that the construction process is complicated, the construction environment is very demanding, and the paint film is prone to defects.
One-component polyurethane coatings mainly include urethane paints, moisture-cured polyurethane coatings, and closed polyurethane coatings. They are not as widely used as two-component polyurethane coatings, and are mainly used for floor coatings, anti-corrosion coatings, pre-coil coatings, etc. Their overall performance is not as comprehensive as two-component coatings.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “polyurethane” on the label.
Consistency: Similar to oil-based paint, but may feel slightly thicker.
Odor: There is a distinct chemical odor, but not as strong as solvent-based paint.
Nitrocellulose lacquer:
Nitropolymer paint
Nitrocellulose lacquer, also known as varnish, is a common wood and decoration paint. The main film-forming material is nitrocellulose, combined with soft and hard resins such as alkyd resin, modified rosin resin, acrylic resin, and amino resin. Generally, plasticizers such as dibutyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, and oxidized castor oil are also required. The solvents mainly include true solvents such as esters, ketones, and alcohol ethers, auxiliary solvents such as alcohols, and diluents such as benzene.
These coatings form a glossy surface and are easy to repair. They are highly regarded for their ability to create a smooth and professional appearance. Nitrocellulose paint is known for its fast drying time (easy construction and fast drying), which is both an advantage and a challenge because it requires skills to apply evenly before curing.
The disadvantage of nitrocellulose lacquer is that it has a low solid content and requires more construction coats to achieve a good effect. The durability and gloss and color retention are not very good, and it is easy to have disadvantages such as loss of gloss, cracking, and discoloration after a long time of use. The paint film has a general protective effect and is not resistant to organic solvents, high temperatures, or corrosion.
They are usually diluted with solvents such as acetone, which makes them more dangerous to use due to the high content of volatile organic compounds.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “nitrocellulose” or “lacquer” on the label.
Consistency: Thin, easy to apply in multiple layers.
Odor: Strong acetone-like odor. - Best Uses:
Nitrocellulose paints have fast-drying, high-gloss properties. They are mainly used for wood furniture, musical instruments and general decorative coatings, metal coatings, general cement coatings, etc. They are ideal for applications that require a smooth, glass-like surface and are often used in professional refinishing projects.
Epoxy paint:
Epoxy paint
Epoxy paint is a type of industrial paint that has developed extremely rapidly in recent years. Generally speaking, paints containing more epoxy polymers in the composition are collectively referred to as epoxy paints. It is famous for its excellent adhesion, chemical resistance and durability. The main variety of epoxy paint is a two-component paint, which is composed of epoxy resin and curing agent. There are also some other one-component self-drying varieties, but their performance is somewhat different from that of two-component paints. It can be made into solvent-free or high-solids paint according to the ratio
Epoxy paints can withstand severe wear and exposure to irritating chemicals. They provide glossy, high-strength coatings with characteristics such as moisture resistance, wear resistance and low chemical toxicity. The disadvantage is that the weather resistance is not good, and powdering may occur after long-term exposure to sunlight, so it can only be used for primers or interior paints; the decorative effect is poor, and the gloss is not easy to maintain; the construction environment requirements are high, the coating film cures slowly at low temperatures, and the effect is not good; many varieties require high-temperature curing, and the investment in coating equipment is large.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “epoxy resin” on the label.
Consistency: thicker and more viscous consistency.
Odor: Strong chemical odor due to the curing agent. - Best Uses:
Epoxy coatings are ideal for floor coatings, garage floors, industrial equipment, and metal surfaces that require a durable, chemical-resistant coating. They can also be used on concrete floors and surfaces exposed to heavy traffic and harsh conditions.
Amino paint:
Amino paints, also known as aminoplast paints. Amino paint mainly consists of two parts. One is the amino resin component, which mainly includes butyl etherified melamine formaldehyde resin, methyl etherified melamine formaldehyde resin, butyl etherified urea-formaldehyde resin and other resins. The second is the hydroxy resin part, which mainly includes medium-short oil alkyd resin, hydroxyl-containing acrylic resin, epoxy resin and other resins. Except for urea-formaldehyde resin paint (commonly known as acid-cured paint) used for wood coatings, the main varieties of amino paints need to be heated and cured. Generally, the curing temperature is above 100°C and the curing time is above 20 minutes. The cured amino paint has excellent performance, the paint film is hard and plump, bright and beautiful, strong and durable, and has good decorative and protective effects.
The disadvantage is that it has high requirements for coating equipment and high energy consumption, which is not suitable for personal DIY and small-scale production.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “amino” or “amino plastic” on the label.
Consistency: medium to thick consistency.
Odor: mild to moderate chemical odor. - Best Uses:
Amino coatings are best used in automotive applications, home appliances, and metal furniture where a durable, glossy finish is required. They can also be used in industrial applications where chemical resistance is important, such as coating various metal surfaces, instrumentation, and industrial equipment.
Alkyd resin paint:
Alkyd paint is mainly an oil-based paint made of alkyd synthetic resin and oil. It is the most widely used paint at present. It dries slower than water-based paint, so the finishing effect is smoother. It has the advantages of low price, simple construction, low requirements for the construction environment, full and hard coating, excellent adhesion, strong gloss retention, good durability and weather resistance, and good protection. The disadvantages are slow drying, the coating is not easy to meet high requirements, and it is not suitable for scenes with extremely high decorative requirements.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “alkyd resin” on the label.
Consistency: thicker and smooth consistency.
Smell: strong solvent smell. - Best use:
Alkyd resin paint is widely used and can be used on various surfaces, including wood, metal railings and masonry. It is mainly used for the coating of general wood products, furniture and home decoration, general metal decorative coating, metal anti-corrosion coating with low requirements, general agricultural machinery, automobiles, instruments and meters, industrial equipment, etc.
Unsaturated polyester paint:
Unsaturated polyester paint
Unsaturated polyester paint is also a type of paint that has developed rapidly in recent years. It is divided into two categories: air-drying unsaturated polyester and radiation-curing (light-curing) unsaturated polyester. Made of unsaturated polyester resin, it is known for its high mechanical strength and chemical resistance. These coatings are cured by a polymerization process, which can be accelerated by adding catalysts.
The main advantage is that it can be made into solvent-free coatings, a thicker paint film can be obtained in one application, and the coating temperature requirement is not high. Moreover, the paint film has a good decorative effect, the paint film is tough and wear-resistant, and it is easy to maintain.
The disadvantage is that the paint film shrinks more during curing, and the adhesion to the substrate is prone to problems. Air-drying unsaturated polyester generally requires polishing, and the procedures are more cumbersome. Radiation-curing unsaturated polyester has higher requirements for coating equipment and is not suitable for personal small-scale construction.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “unsaturated polyester” on the label.
Consistency: thick, gel-like consistency.
Odor: strong resin-like odor. - Best use:
Unsaturated polyester paint coatings are often used in the marine and automotive industries because of their water and chemical resistance. They are also suitable for furniture, wooden floors, metal corrosion protection and fiberglass surfaces. They can also be used for coatings in environments exposed to chemicals and water.
Vinyl paint:
Vinyl paint is based on vinyl resin and can be formulated into vinyl paints with different synthetic ingredients, including chloroacetic acid copolymer resin paint, polyvinyl alcohol butyral paint, vinylidene chloride, perchloroethylene, chlorosulfonated polyethylene paint and other varieties. Vinyl paint is known for its weather resistance, chemical corrosion resistance, water resistance, insulation, mildew resistance and flexibility. The disadvantages of vinyl paint are mainly manifested in general heat resistance, difficulty in making high-solid coatings, general mechanical properties, and poor decorative properties.
- How to identify:
Label check: Look for “vinyl” on the label.
Consistency: Medium to thick consistency.
Odor: Mild to moderate chemical odor. - Best use:
Vinyl paint is best used for exterior walls, concrete floors, masonry surfaces, swimming pool coatings and other applications that require waterproofing and flexibility. Because vinyl paint has water-based and solvent-based formulas, it can provide versatility for different applications. It can also be used for industrial anti-corrosion coatings, electrical insulation coatings, phosphating primers, metal coatings, exterior coatings, etc.
Phenolic paints:
Phenolic paints are made from phenolic resins (phenolic resins are formed by the condensation of phenol and aldehyde in the presence of a catalyst). These paints provide hard, durable coatings that can withstand harsh environments. Phenolic paints are often used in industrial and marine applications where high performance is required.
The advantages of phenolic paints are fast drying, bright and hard paint films, good water resistance and chemical corrosion resistance. Disadvantages are that they tend to yellow easily, are not suitable for light-colored paints, and have poor weather resistance.
- How to Identify:
Label Check: Look for “Phenolic” on the label.
Consistency: Thick, sticky consistency.
Odor: Strong chemical odor. - Best Uses:
Phenolic paints are mainly used for anti-corrosion coatings, insulation coatings, and general metal coatings. Ideal for industrial equipment, marine environments, and surfaces exposed to heat and chemicals. They are also used for coatings in power plants and chemical processing facilities.
Understanding the different types of paint can seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge, you can confidently select the perfect paint for your project. Whether you’re considering the durability of epoxy, the glossy finish of amino, the versatility of alkyd, the strength of unsaturated polyester, the flexibility of vinyl, or the resilience of phenolic paints, each type offers unique benefits suited to specific applications. By recognizing their characteristics and best uses, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any painting challenge.
For more detailed information and to find the ideal paint for your needs, explore our extensive resources at coatingsdirectory.com. Our platform offers a comprehensive filtering system to help you locate the best paint suppliers, home painting services, and industrial coating providers in your area. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, coatingsdirectory.com is your go-to source for all things paint and coatings. Happy painting, and may your projects be as colorful and enduring as your newfound knowledge!
What are the main differences between acrylic latex and solvent-based oil paints?
Acrylic latex paints are water-based, dry quickly, and have low VOCs, making them environmentally friendly. Solvent-based oil paints, on the other hand, dry slower, have higher VOCs, and provide a smoother, glossier finish. Acrylic latex paints are ideal for areas needing quick drying and easy cleanup, while oil paints are better for surfaces requiring a durable, high-gloss finish.
How can I tell if a paint is polyurethane?
Check the label for “polyurethane” and look for a thick, viscous consistency. Polyurethane paints also have a noticeable chemical smell. These paints are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them perfect for surfaces like floors and countertops.
What makes epoxy paints suitable for industrial use?
Epoxy paints are incredibly tough, adhere well, and resist chemicals and abrasion. This makes them ideal for industrial settings where surfaces are exposed to heavy use and harsh chemicals. The label will indicate “epoxy,” and you’ll notice a thicker consistency and strong smell due to the curing agents.
Can I use nitrocellulose paint for my furniture project?
Yes, nitrocellulose paints are great for furniture due to their fast-drying, high-gloss finish. Look for “nitrocellulose” or “lacquer” on the label. These paints dry quickly and provide a smooth, professional look, ideal for wood furniture and musical instruments.
How do vinyl paints compare to other types for exterior surfaces?
Vinyl paints are flexible, water-resistant, and easy to apply, making them excellent for exterior walls and concrete floors. Check for “vinyl” on the label. They offer good protection against weather and moisture, which is essential for outdoor applications.
Why are phenolic paints recommended for high-temperature environments?
Phenolic paints resist chemicals, water, and heat exceptionally well. Look for “phenolic” on the label and expect a thick, viscous consistency. These paints are perfect for industrial equipment and marine environments where high performance is crucial.
What are the advantages of using unsaturated polyester paints on boats?
Unsaturated polyester paints provide high mechanical strength and chemical resistance, essential for marine environments. Look for “unsaturated polyester” on the label. These paints cure to form a durable, water-resistant coating, ideal for boat hulls and automotive parts.
