Paint

Introduction

Paint: Generic term for a thin layer used to protect or decorate a surface.

Paint Components

Binder (Solids)

Gives the paint film integrity and holds the particles of pigment together.

Importance: Most often determines the quality of the paint, durability, flexibility, color retention, gloss, and resistance to peeling, scrubbing and staining.

Pigments (Solids)

Finely ground natural or synthetic insoluble materials that give paint its color

Extenders: May be added to the pigment to reduce the total amount of titanium dioxide (white) needed, but this results in a poorer quality paint.

Importance: Without any pigment, the paint would dry clear, glossy film, similar to a varnish.