
The development of chemistry in the 18th and 19th centuries led to the creation of strong, weatherproof, industrial paints and a wide variety of new synthetic pigments. These synthetic pigments, such as Prussian blue, ultramarine, cobalt, and cadmium, offered new possibilities for artists with their long-lasting nature and wide range of colors. One of the most popular synthetic painting mediums to emerge was acrylic resin emulsion, which combined the expressive capabilities of oils with the quick-drying properties of tempera and gouache. Acrylic paints, with their richness of color and ability to create watercolor effects, were favored by artists such as Helen Frankenthaler and Morris Louis.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Synthetic painting medium | Acrylic resin emulsion |
| Developed after | Industrial-grade paints |
| First developed by | Jackson Pollock |
| Used | To replace oil in everyday paint |
| Properties | Water-based, quick-drying, holds colour well, cheap |
| Synthetic pigments | Prussian blue, Ceruleum Blue, Cobalt Azure Blue, Cobalt turquoise, etc. |
| Synthetic pigments developed in | XVIII-XIX century |
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What You'll Learn

Acrylic resin emulsion
In addition to its use in the arts, acrylic resin emulsion is also used in various industrial applications. For example, it is used in coatings and printing inks, providing excellent clarity, water resistance, and compliance with stringent regulations. Acrylic emulsions are also used in agriculture coatings and textiles, where they meet strict regulations while providing desired performance properties.
Acrylic resin itself has superior properties when compared to vinyl. It provides greater resistance to water, better stain protection, better adhesion, and greater resistance to blistering and cracking. It is also highly waterproof and will not yellow when exposed to sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor applications. Acrylic resin can last for decades in its solid form.
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Industrial paints
Industrial coatings and paints are used across a range of sectors, from agriculture to construction and energy. They are designed to provide strong protection against corrosion and weathering.
One of the most well-known industrial paints is acrylic resin emulsion, which was the first synthetic medium to challenge the dominance of oil-based paints. This type of paint combines the expressive capabilities of oils with the quick-drying properties of tempera and gouache. It is made by mixing pigments with a synthetic resin and thinning with water. Acrylic paints can be applied to a variety of surfaces using different tools, such as brushes, rollers, airbrushes, sponges, or rags. They dry quickly without leaving brush marks and form a matte, waterproof, elastic, and durable finish.
Another type of industrial paint is gloss enamel, which is a synthetic resin-based paint designed for spray painting cars or household decorating. Jackson Pollock, an American abstract expressionist painter, used gloss enamel for his drip technique, as it could be poured smoothly.
Industrial paint manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams and PPG offer a wide range of coating solutions, including liquid coatings, powder coatings, and electrocoats. These companies have a global presence and provide technical support and expertise to their customers. PPG, for example, has a global network of powder manufacturing plants and offers customizable powder coatings in a wide range of colours.
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Synthetic pigments
One of the earliest known synthetic pigments is Prussian blue, accidentally discovered in the early 1700s. This pigment, darker than ultramarine, offered a long-lasting alternative and found its way into artists' palettes. Over the following century, the development of chemistry led to the introduction of many more artificial colours, including the highly prized synthetic ultramarine. This pigment, originally one of the rarest and most expensive colours, became more accessible due to its synthetic reproduction.
The 19th century also witnessed the emergence of synthetic ochres, or mars, with a range of shades from yellow to violet, discovered by German chemist Georg Field. Another significant development was the creation of cadmium pigments, which originated with Friedrich Stromeyer's work in 1817. These pigments, derived from cadmium metal salts, offer a wide array of shades, including lemon, light, medium, golden, and dark yellow, as well as orange and red.
The 20th century brought further innovations, including the introduction of phthalocyanine and quinacridone pigments for watercolour artists. Synthetic paints, such as acrylic resin emulsion, also emerged as a popular alternative to oil paints, offering quick-drying properties and expressive capabilities. Abstract expressionists like Helen Frankenthaler and Morris Louis embraced synthetic acrylics for their richness of colour and the watercolour effects achievable through dilution.
Today, synthetic pigments continue to evolve, with modern innovations like YInMn Blue and ultra-black carbon nanotube pigments. These advancements demonstrate the ongoing exploration and development of synthetic pigments, constantly pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
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Polymer paints
There are several types of polymer paints, each with its own unique properties and applications. Epoxy paint, for example, is an industrial paint that has seen rapid development in recent years. It is known for its excellent adhesion, chemical resistance, and durability. Epoxy paints can also be made into solvent-free or high-solids paint, and they provide glossy, high-strength, moisture-resistant coatings.
Unsaturated polyester paint is another type of polymer paint that has gained popularity. It is known for its high mechanical strength and chemical resistance. The paint film created by this type of polymer paint is tough, wear-resistant, and easy to maintain. However, one disadvantage is that it can shrink during the curing process, which can affect adhesion to the substrate.
Acrylic latex paint is a water-based polymer paint made from acrylic resin. It is affordable, durable, flexible, and resistant to cracking and peeling. This type of paint also has excellent colour retention, ensuring bright and long-lasting colours. Acrylic paints, in general, have been favoured by artists such as Helen Frankenthaler and Morris Louis for their richness of colour and the watercolour effects that can be achieved.
Polyurethane paint is a common polymer paint known for its durability, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, and water resistance. It can form a hard, protective coating, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and frequently cleaned surfaces.
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Synthetic resin-based paints
One of the most well-known synthetic resins is acrylic resin emulsion, which has challenged the supremacy of oil-based paints. Acrylic resin is composed of thermoplastics and thermosetting materials, formed by the cross-linking reaction between acrylic and ester monomers. Acrylic paint is highly resistant to heat, water, and chemicals, and it dries quickly to form a matte, waterproof, and elastic film. It can be applied to various surfaces and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Another type of synthetic resin-based paint is epoxy resin, which is commonly used on metal and concrete surfaces due to its excellent corrosion and abrasion resistance. Epoxy resins are also used in adhesives, coatings, plastics, primers, sealers, and building materials. Polyamide resins, made from dimer fatty acid, are another example of synthetic resins used in paints. They are valued for their high durability and strength, making them suitable for various applications, including automotive coatings and industrial floor coatings.
Synthetic resin emulsion paints are liquid paints that use water as a base, with synthetic resins dispersed as fine particles. As the water evaporates, the resin particles fuse to form a continuous film that provides a beautiful appearance and protective coating. These paints are widely used for interior walls, ceilings, wood, and furniture due to their smooth finish, rich colour variation, and environmental friendliness.
The development of synthetic resin-based paints has offered artists and painters new possibilities, with their rich colours, quick-drying properties, and affordability. They have become a popular choice for many artists, including abstract expressionists such as Jackson Pollock, who utilised their unique characteristics to create their renowned works.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic resin emulsion, a plastic paint that combines the expressive capabilities of oils with the quick-drying properties of tempera and gouache.
Acrylic resin emulsions are made by mixing pigments with a synthetic resin and thinning with water.
Acrylic resin emulsions dry quickly, without brush marks, to form a matte, waterproof film that is also elastic, durable, and easy to clean.











































