Uses of Shellac

Due to versatility of the Lac resin, it finds innumerable uses both in industries fields. On the stand point of industrial uses of shellac one or more of the following properties are of great importance :-

• Shellac dissolves in a wide variety of alkaline or rapidly drying alcoholic solvents but is resistant to a number of other solvents particularly hydrocarbons.
• Its film shows excellent adhesion to a wide variety of surfaces, possessing high gloss, hardness and strength.
• Shellac is powerful bonding material with low thermal conductivity and a small coefficient of expansion. Its thermal plasticity and capacity of absorbing large amounts of filters are noteworthy.
• Its electrical properties include high dielectric strength, low dielectric constant and characteristic freedom from tracking.
• It is resistant to the action of ultraviolet rays.
• Shellac is non-toxic.

Some of the main uses of shellac in different fields are :-

• Surface coating – As under coat, primer, sealer French, Polish, Leather dressing, Fruit Coating etc.
• Printing – Flexographic ink, Waterproof ink, Photo engraving.
• Textiles – Stiffening of hats.
• Cosmetic & Pharmaceuticals – Hair lacquer, coating for Enteric pills, Dental base place.
• Engineering – Grinding wheels, Rivet & Plaste sealer.
• Electrical – Micanite, Insulating Varnish.
• Photography – Dry mounting tissue paper, protective varnish.
• Paper – Paper varnish, playing cards.
• Rubber – Stiffening agent, surface finish.
• Adhesive – gasket cement, sealing wax, pyrotechnic Optical Cement.

Advantages :-

• Non-yellowing when compared to varnish and cellulose-nitrate based lacquers.
• Quick-drying. Many shellacked items can used the same day or shortly thereafter.
• Wide variety of colors available.
• Superior adhesion — no other type finish can surpass it.
• Excellent hardness — it can be sanded and rubbed out well.
• Excellent as a sealer coat to raise the fibers of the wood for subsequent sanding. Also seals in finishing contaminants such as silicone, waxes, dirt and oils.
• Ease of repair. Because shellac re-dissolves in alcohol, scratches and other minor surface imperfections can be invisibly repaired by re-applying shellac to the damaged area. The new shellac melts into the old shellac allowing for perfect repair work.
• Ease of removal. Old and new shellac can be removed with denatured alcohol which eliminates the need for harmful and toxic strippers.
• Can be wiped on (padded), brushed or sprayed — all with good results.
• FDA approved — safe for food utensils and children’s toys.
• No unpleasant or toxic fumes.