What Does
Low Solvent Coating Mean?
Low solvent coatings are those coatings in which the content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are relatively low, generally less than 30% by volume.
These coatings are considered to be environment friendly coatings due to their low volume of VOCs. VOCs contribute to smog, indoor air pollution and respiratory problems.
Corrosionpedia Explains Low Solvent Coating
Low solvent coatings are also referred to low VOC coatings or paints. Common examples of low solvent coatings are Latex-based paints and coatings. Latex-based coatings are available in two types: low VOC and zero VOC.
These coatings can be:
- Made with water and an acrylic resin binder
- Made with vinyl acrylic and an elastomer binder
Low solvent coatings are made with water and an acrylic resin binder, which is used to solidify the coating into a film. The binders are made from synthetic resins of polyvinyl acetate and styrene butadiene as well as other synthetic binders. Low solvent coatings are good for general painting projects such as walls and ceilings.
Low solvent coatings containing vinyl acrylic is the most popular type. These coatings use only one binder, called an elastomer. Low solvent coatings containing an elastomer can expand or contract with temperature changes. This type of coating is also porous and allows moisture to escape from the paint's surface.