Mineral Silicate Paint

Paints using mineral binding agents have been used since at least the 1800's for masonry applications. They depend on silicate or lime as mineral binders though they can contain a portion of an organic binder, usually less than 5% though some contain much higher amounts. Lime-based paints use a calcium hydroxide mineral binder and may contain pozzolanic additives like fly ash. Mineral silicate paints, the focus of this CP, use potassium silicate as the mineral binding agent. These paints chemically bond to masonry substrates like plaster, brick, stone, stucco, and concrete, creating a strong bond. Some can be used on drywall surfaces but may require dilution with water for the priming coat or the application of a special primer that creates a mineral surface for binding. They are not for use on wood, metal, or plastic. Mineral silicate paints are known for high vapor permeability, and because of their alkaline nature, do not require added biocides. This CP includes mineral silicate paints advertised for use in interior applications that could be used as an alternative to interior latex paints on surfaces including drywall, plaster, and concrete. They are water-based and do not typically contain solvents, with VOC content commonly near zero. Inorganic pigments are typically used and are often included by the manufacturer. Colors besides white are excluded from the common contents due to the wide variations possible. Some possible colored pigments are captured in the All Contents tab. Note that application techniques may differ from that of acrylic latex paints, and some products may require the removal of organic paints from the surface prior to application.