Lacquer#Nitrocellulose lacquers

Nitrocellulose lacquers, nitrocellulose lacquers, (alternative denominations nitro -, NC or CN coatings) are a family of paints (or, in a broader sense, paints ) which on the binder used cellulose nitrate - is named - which is often incorrectly referred to as nitrocellulose.

History

Nitrocellulose lacquers were developed on the basis of synthesized resins cotton in the early 1920s in the United States as a fast drying paint for automobile production. Until then, the only one in a reasonable time ( approximately 48 hours) was drying paint called Black Japan, which led to the famous statement by Henry Ford, one could get his car in any color as long as it was only black - other colors were to then only real luxury cars reserved. This paradigm changed with the introduction of a blue, Duco True Blue mentioned, nitro paint from DuPont in 1923, which was first used in the 1925er models of the Oakland brand of General Motors. Nitrocellulose lacquers were then used in the automotive industry until the 1950s.

A basic research and extensive development of nitrocellulose lacquers has operated the German chemist Alfred Kraus ( 1899-1979 ).

Dilution

For thinning, loosening or brush is used to clean the so-called nitro dilution or solution. It consists usually of esters and other hydrocarbons and is usually a fire hazard and a health hazard. That's why manufacturers recommend when using a good ventilation.

Alternatively, you can also use Universal dilution. Again, to ensure good ventilation.

Use, advantages

Nitrocellulose lacquers have good mechanical strength and are therefore primarily used for finishing of wood in the interior, especially of furniture or musical instruments as well as for metals indoors.

They can be processed easily and dry quickly due to the high solvent content. However, for the same reason they are also poorly painted over with nitrocellulose paints, because the solvent in the fresh layer solves the underlying, ancient layer on again.

Contraindications and benefits and harms

Besides the poor Wiederüberstreichbarkeit with nitrocellulose paints these paints are considered to be relatively sensitive to weather (ie more for indoor use ), little fading and poor resistance to chemicals, water and heat.

Due to the rather negative overall benefit-risk analysis, it is worthwhile to consider alternatives such as acrylic paint into consideration.

Ingredients

In addition to cellulose nitrate cellulose nitrate lacquers still usually contain other synthetic resins, pigments or dyes (except for clear coats ), thinners, solvents and plasticizers, matting, grinding and light stabilizers.

Disposal, environmental and health aspects

Due to their high solvent content of up to 70 % poses health risks for the processor. The disposal is problematic residues or waste shall be placed in the hazardous waste and must not in the waste water - or even groundwater - reach.