What is "alkyd"

n. A synthetic resin derived from a reaction between alcohol and certain acids, used as a base for many laminates, paints and coatings.

n. a durable synthetic resin widely used in adhesives and paints [syn: alkyd resin]

An alkyd is a polyester modified by the addition of fatty acids and other components. They are derived from polyols and a dicarboxylic acid or carboxylic acid anhydride. The term alkyd is a modification of the original name "alcid", reflecting the fact that they are derived from alcohol and organic acids. The inclusion of the fatty acid confers a tendency to form flexible coating. Alkyds are used in paints and in moulds for casting. They are the dominant resin or "binder" in most commercial "oil-based" coatings. Approximately 200,000 tons of alkyd resins are produced each year. The original alkyds were compounds of glycerol and phthalic acid sold under the name Glyptal. These were sold as substitutes for the darker colored Copal resins, thus creating alkyd varnishes which were much paler in colour. From these, the alkyds we know today were developed.