Shellac‐acrylic emulsion paint for cementations surfaces

PurposeTo explore compatibility of natural resin shellac with acrylic resin in order to make a more eco‐friendly coating composition and also to open a new avenue for consumption of shellac.Design/methodology/approachDifferent compositions of paint were prepared by varying the contents of shellac and acrylic resin. Selection was made for the composition yielding the best combination of properties like water resistance, alkali resistance, washability, etc.FindingsModification of shellac with acrylic resin showed improved film performance. The modified product showed good adhesion, finish; the films were smooth, flexible and no flaking/detachment was observed from the surfaces. This resulted in from esterification linkages between shellac and acrylic resin.Research limitations/implicationsThe concentration of shellac in the composition was limited to a certain extent. Increase in shellac content impairs the film performance of the composition, especially with regard to alkali resistance.Practical implicationsShellac was found to be very compatible with acrylic resin at all concentrations, this may be adopted in developing other shellac‐acrylic based products.Originality/valueThe modification of shellac with acrylic resin has been done, for the first time, to open a new vista for the consumption of shellac in surface coating.