Definition - What does Alkyd mean?

An alkyd is a type of a modified polyester that contains other components such as fatty acids. The term was derived from "alcid," which denotes that they are developed from organic acids and alcohol.

The fatty acid content promotes the flexibility of the coating, making it a vital element in the production of anti-corrosion coatings.

Corrosionpedia explains Alkyd

Alkyds are commonly found in coatings, and they can be classified as short, medium or long, which signifies the length of oil in the resin. Since alkyds are altered with triglyceride oils and fatty acids, they are comparably affordable and offer many benefits.

Coatings made with alkyds are among the most popular on the market, and are available in different finishes, making them very versatile.

Advantages of alkyds in paints include:

  • High resistance to common wear and tear, making them highly suitable in high-traffic areas.
  • Weather-resistant, making them one of the best options when coating objects that are outdoors or exposed to many damaging factors.
  • High resistance to temperature changes, holding up very well under extreme heat and cold, which aids in protecting surfaces against the harmful effects of corrosion.

Additionally, alkyds and coatings with this component are less toxic than many other coatings. Though they have the tendency to dry less quickly, the advantages generally outweigh some of the drawbacks.

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