Why use alkyd resins in construction ?

As the name suggests, alkyd resins are created by combining alcohol (Al) and fatty acids (cid). Most of the time, the alcohol used comes from glycerine, obtained from linseed oil or soya bean oil. These oils also contain fatty acids.

Alkyd resin is known among professionals for providing a brighter, stronger film and has the advantage that it can be applied to all types of surfaces, except concrete and cement.

Cutting to the chase, here are some reasons why alkyd resins are so worth using in the construction sector.

What is alkyd resin?

Alkyd resin, also known as “glycerophthalic resin”, is often used as a binder in paint, varnish and wood products. These high-performance products deliver a smooth and aesthetic appearance as well as excellent resistance to moisture.

It takes longer to dry than with an acrylic base. Indeed, the metallic salts contained in this product mean it dries through oxidising in air. One to two days are needed for full curing, depending on which metal salts are used and the amount and type of plant-based oil. The more polyunsaturated the oil, the faster the drying process in air.

Various uses of alkyd resin in the construction industry

Once dissolved in a thinner (usually white spirit), the alkyd resin is transformed into a finished product.

In the construction sector, it is particularly popular for:

• its enduring flexibility;
  its resistance to impact and the elements;
  and also its excellent adhesion properties.

Alkyd resin for painting

Alkyd paint is considered the modern descendant of oil paint. It is now considered one of the best products on the market.

But in concrete terms, in which scenarios can it be used in the construction industry? Firstly, as wall paint. For both internal and exterior walls, this alkyd resin-based lacquer is able to adhere extremely well to any mineral substrate. By sealing the substrate with just one layer, it can be used perfectly well as a paint or barrier primer, in renovation, for instance.

But that’s not all: thanks to its excellent resistance to light and the elements, alkyd paint makes an ideal primer for wood. Used mainly outdoors, it is also very effective on door and window frames.

Alkyd resin for varnish and stain

Alkyd resin can also be used to produce varnishes and stains.

Varnish and stain can be used as primers, secondary and top coats for both interior and exterior applications.

Depending on the composition, it can have excellent UV resistance and low VOC content.

Alkyd resin as a grinding binder

Alkyd resin can also be used as a grinding or dispersion binder for pigment paste. This fixes pigment and allows custom paintwork. It is very popular with painters looking to achieve a unique pigmentation.

As can be seen, alkyd resin can be used in many different applications in the construction sector. It appears to be one of the best options available on the market today.