Why oil-based enamel paint is becoming a thing of the past…

It used to be that solvent-based paints were the preferred choice in coatings, favoured for their perceived durability, especially in enamel paints. But these solvents can be demanding in terms of application, cleaning and disposal, and, most importantly, they can be harmful to the environment.

Much of environmental conservation and ethical practice involves correcting ingrained perceptions and innovating so that the same quality product can be provided while reducing environmental impact. This is very much the case with enamel paint. There has been a global shift toward water-based products which offer equal, if not better, quality. The water-based alternatives carry added benefits including faster drying times, lower associated costs and minimal impact to the environment and the health and well-being of consumers.

Plascon Velvaglo Water-Based Enamel is just one product within an extensive range of water-based solutions offered by Plascon. Leading the field in water-based alternatives, Plascon Velvaglo Water-Based Enamel is prized for its superior strength, satin finish, and versatility. The paint has been formulated with a unique water-based acrylic hybrid called AquatoughTM, to provide all the toughness of a solvent-based enamel including UV-, flaking- and stain-resistance. It also boasts non-drip properties while remaining environmentally friendly and non-toxic.

Of particular concern with solvent-based products is the associated risk of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emission, which has become a major societal concern with VOC pollution on the rise. VOCs are chemicals emitted from production processes and common household items. These chemicals accumulate in the air and can have short- and long-term adverse health effects.

Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoors. To combat this threat, Plascon has optimised the formulations of its premium brands, which now all boast zero VOC recipes. This means that there are no VOC emissions when using these products thereby protecting the environment as well as your home and family.

Plascon continues to innovate, with a focus on developing pioneering products while being conscious of their environmental impact – and its excellent water-based enamel is just one of its solutions. These changes affirm Plascon’s re-orientation and refreshed commitment to focus on people and purpose.

For more information visit www.plascon.com