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{{ENGR308inprogress|December 15, 2010}}
{{topic header| Npcolors1.JPG | Natural paint }}  


Natural paints avoid [[indoor air pollution]] and can have an unusual, attractive appearance.
[[Image:Brush_byHeatherBrown.jpg|thumb|There are several eco-friendly paint options on the market, but many DIYers are choosing instead to make their own using natural materials.<ref>Photo courtesy of Heather Brown.</ref>]]


==Introductions==
==Introductions==
This page describes natural paints as a potential component of [[United States of America]] home construction.
 
This page describes natural paints as a potential component of [[United States of America]] home construction.  Only a few decades ago, the petrochemical industry largely took over the production of oil-based and water-based paints.  The idea that paint should be able to breath was abandoned. Also, added synthetic chemicals are very harmful to humans and animals.  Natural paints derived from plant and mineral materials have subtle, soothing colors, pleasant scents, and help create a healthy environment.<ref>
Building with Earth, Chelsea Green Publishing Company, 2001
</ref> Natural paints avoid [[indoor air pollution]] and can have an unusual, attractive appearance.




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Over time, synthetic, toxic and energy-intensive materials were added to the paints that people use in their homes. These materials weren't added specifically to cause harm, but that didn't lessen their harmful effects. Some of these materials include synthetic dyes to increase color choices, additives to combat mold, and non-water-based binders such as petroleum products and heavy metals which were designed to withstand high use areas like kitchens.<ref>This information according to http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/selecting-green-paint</ref> A notable expample is the lead-based paints that were once popular, but have now been linked to serious health risks.
Over time, synthetic, toxic and energy-intensive materials -- such as formaldehyde -- were added to the paints that people use in their homes.<ref>This information according to http://ezproxy.humboldt.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=afh&AN=4096867&site=ehost-live</ref> These materials weren't added specifically to cause harm, but that didn't lessen their harmful effects. Some of these materials include synthetic dyes to increase color choices, additives to combat mold, and non-water-based binders such as petroleum products and heavy metals which were designed to withstand high use areas like kitchens.<ref name="Greenhome">This information according to http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/selecting-green-paint</ref> A notable example is the lead-based paints that were once popular, but have now been linked to serious health risks.




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<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Herculaneum_Fresco.jpg|A fresco from a house in the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum. Likely painted with chalk, charcoal and colored earth on damp lime plaster, this style of fresco did not require a binder in the paint to adhere to the wall.<ref>This information according to http://www.naturalpigments.com/education/article.asp?ArticleID=19</ref>
Image:Herculaneum_Fresco.jpg|A fresco from a house in the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum. Likely painted with chalk, charcoal and colored earth on damp lime plaster, this style of fresco did not require a binder in the paint to adhere to the wall.<ref>This information according to http://www.naturalpigments.com/education/article.asp?ArticleID=19</ref>
Image:Duccio_The-Madonna-and-Child.jpg|<i>Madonna and Child</i> by Duccio, 1284 A.D. This painting is tempera, an egg-based paint, and gold on wood. Tempera paintings are very long lasting, and examples from the first centuries AD still exist.<ref>This information according to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_tempera</ref>
Image:Duccio_The-Madonna-and-Child.jpg|<i>Madonna and Child</i> by Duccio, 1284 A.D. This painting is tempera, an egg-based paint, and gold on wood. Tempera paintings are very long lasting, and examples from the first centuries AD still exist.<ref name="Egg tempera">This information according to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_tempera</ref>
Image:The_Last_Supper.jpg|Leonardo DaVinci's <i>The Last Supper</i>, 1495-1498, is a great example of the beauty and durability of egg-based tempera paint. <ref>This information according to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_tempera</ref>
Image:The_Last_Supper.jpg|Leonardo DaVinci's <i>The Last Supper</i>, 1495-1498, is a great example of the beauty and durability of egg-based tempera paint. <ref name="Egg tempera"/>
Image:Flatiron_Building.jpg|Colin Campbell Cooper's <i>Flatiron Building</i>, 1908, is casein (milk-based paint) on canvas.<ref>This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Colin_Campbell_Cooper_-_Flatiron_Building.JPG</ref>
Image:Flatiron_Building.jpg|Colin Campbell Cooper's <i>Flatiron Building</i>, 1908, is casein (milk-based paint) on canvas.<ref>This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Colin_Campbell_Cooper_-_Flatiron_Building.JPG</ref>
Image:Edvard-Munch_The-Scream.jpg|<i>The Scream</i>, or <i>The Cry</i> by Edvard Munch is casein, tempera and wax crayon on cardboard.<ref>This image from http://farm1.static.flickr.com/40/100761143_226e540b49.jpg</ref><ref>This information according to http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/munch/</ref>
Image:Edvard-Munch_The-Scream.jpg|<i>The Scream</i>, or <i>The Cry</i> by Edvard Munch is casein, tempera and wax crayon on cardboard.<ref>This image from http://farm1.static.flickr.com/40/100761143_226e540b49.jpg</ref><ref>This information according to http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/munch/</ref>
Image:Nirmal_Painting.jpg|This piece is created in the Nirmal style of painting. Named after a town in India, even modern Nirmal paintings remain true to the traditional techniques, including using natural ingredients like tamarind seed, herbs and mud.<ref>This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:File.Nirmal_Painting.jpeg</ref>
Image:Nirmal_Painting.jpg|This piece is created in the Nirmal style of painting. Named after a town in India, even modern Nirmal paintings remain true to the traditional techniques, including using natural ingredients like tamarind seed, herbs and mud.<ref>This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:File.Nirmal_Painting.jpeg</ref>
Image:NP78.jpg|Students at Humboldt State University use egg paint to create this logo for the interior wall of the Campus Center for Appropriate Technology.<ref>This information according to http://www.appropedia.org/CCAT_natural_paint_project</ref>
Image:Fireplace_byBillSteen.jpg|Flour paint can be applied to most interior surfaces, including this fireplace.<ref>Photo courtesy of Bill Steen.</ref>
Image:NP78.jpg|Students at Humboldt State University use egg paint to create this logo for the interior wall of the Campus Center for Appropriate Technology.<ref name="NPP">This information according to [[CCAT natural paint project]].</ref>
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Natural Paint Basics===
===Natural Paint Basics===


{{main|Natural paint basics}}
[[Image:Pigment_byHeatherBrown.jpg|thumb|Natural earth pigments add color to natural paints and are available at artist supply stores.<ref>Photo courtesy of Heather Brown.</ref>]]
Paint generally has three main ingredients or parts.
Paint generally has three main ingredients or parts.


* The first part is the <b>pigment</b>, which is responsible for the color of the paint.<ref>This information is according to http://www.appropedia.org/Natural_paint_basics</ref>
# The first part is the <b>pigment</b>, which is responsible for the color of the paint.<ref name="NatPaint">This information is according to [[Natural paint basics]]</ref>
# The second part is the <b>solvent</b>. The solvent keeps the paint in liquid form and evaporates off as the paint dries.<ref name="Greenhome"/> Solvent can also be used during the painting process to clean paint spills and correct mistakes.<ref name="NatPaint"/>
# The third part of paint is the <b>binder</b>, which, as its name suggests, binds the paint together. This is the main body of paint.<ref name="NatPaint"/>
# A fourth, optional component of paint is a <b>filler</b>. Fillers can be used to manipulate the texture and consistency of paint, and to reinforce the binder.<ref name="NatPaint"/>


* The second part is the <b>solvent</b>. The solvent keeps the paint in liquid form and evaporates off as the paint dries.<ref>This information according to http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/selecting-green-paint</ref> Solvent can also be used during the painting process to clean paint spills and correct mistakes.<ref>This information is according to http://www.appropedia.org/Natural_paint_basics</ref>
==Drawbacks of synthetic paints==


* The third part of paint is the <b>binder</b>, which, as its name suggests, binds the paint together. This is the main body of paint.<ref>This information is according to http://www.appropedia.org/Natural_paint_basics</ref>
===VOCs/Indoor Air Quality===


* A fourth, optional component of paint is a <b>filler</b>. Fillers can be used to manipulate the texture and consistency of paint, and to reinforce the binder.<ref>This information according to http://www.appropedia.org/Natural_paint_basics</ref>  
*[[Volatile Organic Compounds]], or VOCs, such as those found in synthetic household paints can cause physical irritation and/or damage including irritation of eyes, nose and throat, headaches, loss of coordination, nausea, liver, kidney and central nervous system damage and some are carcinogenic.<ref name="EPA VOC">This information is according to http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html</ref>
*Common organic pollutants (including VOCs) have been found in higher concentrations ''within the home'' than outside.<ref name="EPA VOC"/>
*Paints labeled "no-VOC" and "zero-VOC" can still legally contain up to 5g/L of VOCs.<ref name="Greenhome"/>
*Modern "lead-free" synthetic paints can still have as much as 0.06% lead which scientists fear could be harmful to small children, even at low levels. <ref>This information is according to [http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:jBfBNYQr_8oJ:www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/case/paint.pdf+GS-11+paints,+natural+paint,+site:.gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESjFBOhhK1Sptv0bAyGgQeaCvIEcOGTC8Z1e4CKuNd0Cbj4prqlHkI3BfwdDmf5WVe4kXNKIYHeIe9fqOnlGp-NQ2CyMI8HmXV8ymcHBAEIBSxIy9OyIPodpkZvrckQCWzOK5PjO&sig=AHIEtbRz_RRLt3e1Q9b1HHOKy2guyJx_zg ''Painting the Town Green'' Aberdeen Proving Ground’s Paint Pilot Project]</ref>


===Waste===


See also: [[Natural paint basics]]
*By volume, household paints account for a large portion of household hazardous waste in US homes.<ref name="OCAPP">This information according to [http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:6SycTLXYP5gJ:www.epa.ohio.gov/LinkClick.aspx%3Ffileticket%3DTV%252FZRe4a3Es%253D%26tabid%3D2646+how+to+dispose+of+household+paint,+US,+site:gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShhfKKTkboaROlw8h4oN28UUEe7xYSFpmd8o7oEEHJwGMUIrZzOE4R6yhiA5iO-9bA0kjy67nyFj5zkMrzy1Cpwk3bLMkr0itXhptbNIKLNtsa9M-Gk36LJv04OKa6dWVLFQ5dR&sig=AHIEtbQBCQsXOYMFF9YH9zayQ8y117P98A ''Storing and Disposing of Paint from Your Home'' by OCAPP]</ref>


==Reasons for product==
* Household latex paint, oil-based paint and paint thinner are considered "hazardous waste" by the EPA. <ref>This information according to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/trash/disphhw.htm</ref>


===VOCs/Indoor Air Quality===
* Although considered less detrimental to health and the environment than oil-based paints, latex paint contains hazardous ingredients such as acrylics, vinyls and epoxies.<ref>This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm</ref>


*Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, can cause physical irritation and/or damage including irritation of eyes, nose and throat; headaches; loss of coordination; nausea; liver, kidney and central nervous system damage; and some are carcinogenic and can cause cancer in animals and humans.<ref>This information is according to http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html</ref>
* In California specifically, latex paint must be disposed of in a Class I hazardous waste landfill. <ref name="Calrecycle">This information according to http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/paint/</ref>


*Common organic pollutants (including VOCs)have been found in higher concentrations <i>within the home</i> than outside. <ref>This information is according to http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html</ref>
* Oil-based paints commonly contain petrochemical products as a solvent.<ref name="Calrecycle"/>


*Paints labeled "no-VOC" and "zero-VOC" can still legally contain up to 5g/L of VOCs.<ref>This information according to http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/selecting-green-paint</ref>
* Until 1990, mercury was used as an ingredient in oil-based and latex household paints. Leftover oil-based and latex household paints from before then may contain mercury, and oil-based paints that are several years old may also contain lead.<ref name="OCAPP"/>


*Modern "lead-free" paints can still have as much as 0.06% lead which scientists fear could be harmful to small children, even at low levels. <ref>This information is according to http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:jBfBNYQr_8oJ:www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/case/paint.pdf+GS-11+paints,+natural+paint,+site:.gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESjFBOhhK1Sptv0bAyGgQeaCvIEcOGTC8Z1e4CKuNd0Cbj4prqlHkI3BfwdDmf5WVe4kXNKIYHeIe9fqOnlGp-NQ2CyMI8HmXV8ymcHBAEIBSxIy9OyIPodpkZvrckQCWzOK5PjO&sig=AHIEtbRz_RRLt3e1Q9b1HHOKy2guyJx_zg</ref>
* In the UK, the government also classifies household paint as "hazardous waste." <ref name="Ecologist">This information according to http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/home/268680/natural_house_paintsgood_enough_to_eat.html</ref>


===Waste===
* Because synthetic household paints contain hazardous ingredients, they cannot be thrown into a regular garbage can. Depending on the type of paint, the disposal process may include tedious drying-out processes, finding a recycling center that accepts paint or locating hazardous waste collection programs. <ref>This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm</ref>


*By volume, household paints account for a large portion of household hazardous waste in US homes.<ref>This information according to http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:6SycTLXYP5gJ:www.epa.ohio.gov/LinkClick.aspx%3Ffileticket%3DTV%252FZRe4a3Es%253D%26tabid%3D2646+how+to+dispose+of+household+paint,+US,+site:gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShhfKKTkboaROlw8h4oN28UUEe7xYSFpmd8o7oEEHJwGMUIrZzOE4R6yhiA5iO-9bA0kjy67nyFj5zkMrzy1Cpwk3bLMkr0itXhptbNIKLNtsa9M-Gk36LJv04OKa6dWVLFQ5dR&sig=AHIEtbQBCQsXOYMFF9YH9zayQ8y117P98A</ref>
* People with unused or leftover household paints that can be classified as hazardous waste are encouraged to donate, return or swap paint to reduce waste.<ref name="OCAPP"/>


* Household latex paint, oil-based paint and paint thinner are considered "hazardous waste" by the EPA. <ref>This information according to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/trash/disphhw.htm</ref>
* Even in production, it is estimated that for every 1000 kilograms of synthetic paint produced, 10,000 kilograms of waste are created. For specialty paints, this can be as high as 30,000 kilograms of waste.<ref name="Ecologist"/>


* Although considered less detrimental to health and the environment than oil-based paints, latex paint contains hazardous ingredients such as acrylics, vinyls and epoxies.<ref>This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm</ref>
* Titanium dioxide is a key ingredient in synthetic paints, and must be mined and processed in environmentally damaging ways.<ref name="Ecologist"/>


* In California specifically, latex paint must be disposed of in a Class I hazardous waste landfill. <ref>This information according to http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/paint/</ref>
==Impacts of natural paint==


* Oil-based paints commonly containt petrochemical products as a solvent.<ref>This information according to http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/paint/</ref>
===Advantages===


* Until 1990, mercury was used as an ingredient in oil-based and latex household paints. Leftover oil-based and latex household paints from before then may contain mercury, and oil-based paints that are several years old may also contain lead.<ref>This information according to http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:6SycTLXYP5gJ:www.epa.ohio.gov/LinkClick.aspx%3Ffileticket%3DTV%252FZRe4a3Es%253D%26tabid%3D2646+how+to+dispose+of+household+paint,+US,+site:gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShhfKKTkboaROlw8h4oN28UUEe7xYSFpmd8o7oEEHJwGMUIrZzOE4R6yhiA5iO-9bA0kjy67nyFj5zkMrzy1Cpwk3bLMkr0itXhptbNIKLNtsa9M-Gk36LJv04OKa6dWVLFQ5dR&sig=AHIEtbQBCQsXOYMFF9YH9zayQ8y117P98A</ref>
* Using natural paint can reduce the amount of VOCs present in the home, improving indoor air quality.
* Natural paints are microporous, allowing the walls to breathe. Because moisture is not trapped between the wall and the layer of paint, there is no blistering or peeling.<ref name="Milewye">This information according to http://www.mikewye.co.uk/TheBenefitsofNaturalPaints.pdf</ref>
* Natural paints do not use petroleum products and contain ingredients from sustainable sources.<ref name="Milewye"/>
* Because of their non-toxic, natural ingredients, many natural paints are biodegradable, easily disposed of and even fit for a household compost pile once dried. This reduces landfill mass, environmental pollution and disposal costs compared to synthetic paints.<ref>This information according to http://www.bot.yildiz.edu.tr/ids09/_data/_readings/DESIGN%20AND%20DETAILING%20FOR%20DECONST.pdf</ref>


* In the UK, the government also classifies household paint as "hazardous waste." <ref>This information according to http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/home/268680/natural_house_paintsgood_enough_to_eat.html</ref>
===Disadvantages===


* Because synthetic household paints contain hazardous ingredients, they cannot be thrown into a regular garbage can. Depending on the type of paint, the disposal process may include tedious drying-out processes, finding a recycling center that accepts paint or locating hazardous waste collection programs. <ref>This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm</ref>
* Natural paints, especially store bought, may be more expensive than synthetic paints.<ref name="Seattle">This information according to http://www.seattle.gov/purchasing/pdf/RPNPaint.pdf
</ref>
* Natural paints may be more difficult to work with than synthetic paints because of texture, rate of drying and inconsistent coloring from batch to batch.<ref name="NPP"/>
* Although anecdotally durable and resistant, there is a lack of performance data on natural paints, so it is important to test natural paint before committing to a contract.<ref name="Seattle"/>


* People with unused or leftover household paints that can be classified as hazardous waste are encouraged to donate, return or swap paint to reduce waste.<ref>This information according to http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:6SycTLXYP5gJ:www.epa.ohio.gov/LinkClick.aspx%3Ffileticket%3DTV%252FZRe4a3Es%253D%26tabid%3D2646+how+to+dispose+of+household+paint,+US,+site:gov&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShhfKKTkboaROlw8h4oN28UUEe7xYSFpmd8o7oEEHJwGMUIrZzOE4R6yhiA5iO-9bA0kjy67nyFj5zkMrzy1Cpwk3bLMkr0itXhptbNIKLNtsa9M-Gk36LJv04OKa6dWVLFQ5dR&sig=AHIEtbQBCQsXOYMFF9YH9zayQ8y117P98A</ref>


* Even in production, it is estimated that for every 1000 kilograms of synthetic paint produced, 10,000 kilograms of waste are created. For specialty paints, this can be as high as 30,000 kilograms of waste.<ref>This information according to http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/home/268680/natural_house_paintsgood_enough_to_eat.html</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Manufacturer
! Type of Paint
! VOC Content (lb/gal)
! Approximate Cost ($/gal)
|-
| Krylon <ref>This information according to http://www.utilitysafeguard.com/Krylon-Paint/Industrial-Coatings/Rust-Tough-Acrylic-Enamel_11/</ref>
| Industrial, water-based epoxy paint
| 1.36
| 44
|-
| Benjamin Moore <ref>This information according to [http://www.benjaminmoore.com/bmpsweb/portals/bmps.portal?_nfpb=true&_windowLabel=contentrenderer_1_7&contentrenderer_1_7_actionOverride=%2Fbm%2Fcms%2FContentRenderer%2FrenderContent&contentrenderer_1_7cnp=public_site%2Farticles%2Fproduct_articles%2Fpa_ind_specialty_products&contentrenderer_1_7np=productcatalog%2Fproduct_pages%2Fpaint%2Fprd_p59&_pageLabel=fa_productsspecs Benjamin Moore® Super Spec HP® Latex Flat Fire Retardant P59]</ref>
| Super Spec HP interior latex paint
| 0.48
| 34
|-
| The Natural Paint Company <ref name="The Natural Paint Company">This information according to http://www.naturalpaint.com.au/</ref>
| Casein marble interior paint
| 0.00
| 82
|}


* Titanium dioxide is a key ingredient in synthetic paints, and must be mined and processed in environmentally damaging ways.<ref>This information according to http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/home/268680/natural_house_paintsgood_enough_to_eat.html</ref>
==Products and recipes==


==Impacts==
===Types of Natural Paints===
DESCRIBE THE IMPACTS OF THIS PRODUCT.


Reduction or elimination of VOCs
====Water-based paint====
Water-based paints are the best choices for an environmentally-friendly solvent{{fact}}. Distemper and lime wash are two popular examples.<ref name="NatPaint"/>


Compostable
====Casein or Milk paint====
Casein paint is made from a protein commonly found in dairy, and is often called "milk paint" or "milk-based paint." This paint is mold resistant, durable and compostable.<ref name="NatPaint"/> However, if not allowed to dry properly, milk-based paint can sour or mold.<ref>This information according to Paula Baker-Laporte, Erica Elliot and John Banta, "Prescriptions for A Healthy House. A Practical guide for Architects, Builders & Homeowners." New Society Publishers, 2001.</ref>


==Product and/or DIY instructions==
====Tempera or Egg paint====
THIS SHOULD BE A TABLE OF PRODUCTS WITH DESCRIPTIONS, ADVANTAGES, DISADVANTAGES AND LINKS. (see [[Help:Tables]])
Egg-based paint is durable and quick to dry. It dries to a glossy finish.<ref name="NatPaint"/>


===Types of Natural Paints===
====Flour paint====
Flour paint, though thick and tough on brushes, can be used on a wide range of household surfaces including wallpaper and drywall.<ref name="NatPaint"/>


====Oil-based paint====
Commonly made from linseed oil, natural oil-based paints are durable and have a velvety texture.<ref name="NatPaint"/>


See also:
===Recipes===
[[Natural paint basics]]
Here are some recipes on Appropedia:
===Recipies===
* [[Distemper cellulouse paint]]
* [[Oil paint for wood]]
* [[Casein borax paint]]
* [[Quark and oil glaze]]
* [[Curdled milk paint recipe]]
* [[Flour paint recipe]]
* [[Egg and clove oil tempera paint]]


[[Curdled milk paint recipe]]
===Examples of Manufactured Natural Paints===


[[Flour paint recipe]]
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Manufacturer
! Product
! Qualities
! Advantages
|-
| Ecotrend Paint<ref>This information according to http://www.naturalinteriorpaint.com/about.html</ref>
| Egg-based interior paint
| Anti-mold  <br><br>Anti-bacterial  <br><br>120 colors 
| No VOCs  <br><br>No harmful chemicals  <br><br>Odorless
|-
| The Natural Paint Company<ref name="The Natural Paint Company"/>
| Natural primers  <br><br>Vegan primer  <br><br>Interior paints of chalk, lime, plant-based casein, marble powder and clay
| Unlimited palette choice  <br><br>Stain-covering capability 
| No VOCs  <br><br>Organic  <br><br>Hypo-allergenic 
|}


== See also ==
== See also ==
* [[Bottoms strawbale earthen plaster]]
* [[Bottoms strawbale earthen plaster]]
* [[CCAT natural paint project]]
* [[CCAT natural paint project]]
Line 111: Line 173:
* [[Natural paint basics]]
* [[Natural paint basics]]
* [[Parras natural paint gallery]]
* [[Parras natural paint gallery]]
* [[Clay plaster]]
* [[Small_Scale_Production_of_Lime_for_Building|Lime: though not a "paint", can be used to color indoor rooms white]]


== References ==
== References ==
<references/>
<small><references/></small>


[[Category:Engr308 Technology and the Environment]]
[[Category:Engr308 Technology and the Environment]]
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[[Category:Built environment]]
[[Category:Built environment]]
[[Category:Indoor air pollution]]
[[Category:Indoor air pollution]]
[[Category:Natural paint| ]]
[[Category:Paint]]
[[Category:Paint]]
[[Category:HBCSL]]
[[Category:HBCSL]]
[[Category:Natural building]]

Revision as of 11:38, 20 August 2012

There are several eco-friendly paint options on the market, but many DIYers are choosing instead to make their own using natural materials.[1]

Introductions

This page describes natural paints as a potential component of United States of America home construction. Only a few decades ago, the petrochemical industry largely took over the production of oil-based and water-based paints. The idea that paint should be able to breath was abandoned. Also, added synthetic chemicals are very harmful to humans and animals. Natural paints derived from plant and mineral materials have subtle, soothing colors, pleasant scents, and help create a healthy environment.[2] Natural paints avoid indoor air pollution and can have an unusual, attractive appearance.


A Brief History

Creating durable, beautiful paints out of natural ingredients is not a new phenomenon. For millenia, people have been using the materials around them to create paints to color their worlds. Examples of natural paints can be found in the earliest cave drawings. They can be found in the world's most prestigious museums. And they can be found in the average home.


Over time, synthetic, toxic and energy-intensive materials -- such as formaldehyde -- were added to the paints that people use in their homes.[3] These materials weren't added specifically to cause harm, but that didn't lessen their harmful effects. Some of these materials include synthetic dyes to increase color choices, additives to combat mold, and non-water-based binders such as petroleum products and heavy metals which were designed to withstand high use areas like kitchens.[4] A notable example is the lead-based paints that were once popular, but have now been linked to serious health risks.


But interest in natural paints has recently resurfaced in the face of growing concern for our environment, bringing people back to the techniques and materials that have stood the test of time. Still, it is important to understand that "natural" doesn't automatically mean "non-toxic" or "safe." Please use the information on this page to help inform your decisions about which natural paints are best for you and your home.


Below are examples of natural paints in action: beautiful, durable, and eco-groovy.

Natural Paint Basics

Natural earth pigments add color to natural paints and are available at artist supply stores.[13]

Paint generally has three main ingredients or parts.

  1. The first part is the pigment, which is responsible for the color of the paint.[14]
  2. The second part is the solvent. The solvent keeps the paint in liquid form and evaporates off as the paint dries.[4] Solvent can also be used during the painting process to clean paint spills and correct mistakes.[14]
  3. The third part of paint is the binder, which, as its name suggests, binds the paint together. This is the main body of paint.[14]
  4. A fourth, optional component of paint is a filler. Fillers can be used to manipulate the texture and consistency of paint, and to reinforce the binder.[14]

Drawbacks of synthetic paints

VOCs/Indoor Air Quality

  • Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, such as those found in synthetic household paints can cause physical irritation and/or damage including irritation of eyes, nose and throat, headaches, loss of coordination, nausea, liver, kidney and central nervous system damage and some are carcinogenic.[15]
  • Common organic pollutants (including VOCs) have been found in higher concentrations within the home than outside.[15]
  • Paints labeled "no-VOC" and "zero-VOC" can still legally contain up to 5g/L of VOCs.[4]
  • Modern "lead-free" synthetic paints can still have as much as 0.06% lead which scientists fear could be harmful to small children, even at low levels. [16]

Waste

  • By volume, household paints account for a large portion of household hazardous waste in US homes.[17]
  • Household latex paint, oil-based paint and paint thinner are considered "hazardous waste" by the EPA. [18]
  • Although considered less detrimental to health and the environment than oil-based paints, latex paint contains hazardous ingredients such as acrylics, vinyls and epoxies.[19]
  • In California specifically, latex paint must be disposed of in a Class I hazardous waste landfill. [20]
  • Oil-based paints commonly contain petrochemical products as a solvent.[20]
  • Until 1990, mercury was used as an ingredient in oil-based and latex household paints. Leftover oil-based and latex household paints from before then may contain mercury, and oil-based paints that are several years old may also contain lead.[17]
  • In the UK, the government also classifies household paint as "hazardous waste." [21]
  • Because synthetic household paints contain hazardous ingredients, they cannot be thrown into a regular garbage can. Depending on the type of paint, the disposal process may include tedious drying-out processes, finding a recycling center that accepts paint or locating hazardous waste collection programs. [22]
  • People with unused or leftover household paints that can be classified as hazardous waste are encouraged to donate, return or swap paint to reduce waste.[17]
  • Even in production, it is estimated that for every 1000 kilograms of synthetic paint produced, 10,000 kilograms of waste are created. For specialty paints, this can be as high as 30,000 kilograms of waste.[21]
  • Titanium dioxide is a key ingredient in synthetic paints, and must be mined and processed in environmentally damaging ways.[21]

Impacts of natural paint

Advantages

  • Using natural paint can reduce the amount of VOCs present in the home, improving indoor air quality.
  • Natural paints are microporous, allowing the walls to breathe. Because moisture is not trapped between the wall and the layer of paint, there is no blistering or peeling.[23]
  • Natural paints do not use petroleum products and contain ingredients from sustainable sources.[23]
  • Because of their non-toxic, natural ingredients, many natural paints are biodegradable, easily disposed of and even fit for a household compost pile once dried. This reduces landfill mass, environmental pollution and disposal costs compared to synthetic paints.[24]

Disadvantages

  • Natural paints, especially store bought, may be more expensive than synthetic paints.[25]
  • Natural paints may be more difficult to work with than synthetic paints because of texture, rate of drying and inconsistent coloring from batch to batch.[12]
  • Although anecdotally durable and resistant, there is a lack of performance data on natural paints, so it is important to test natural paint before committing to a contract.[25]


Manufacturer Type of Paint VOC Content (lb/gal) Approximate Cost ($/gal)
Krylon [26] Industrial, water-based epoxy paint 1.36 44
Benjamin Moore [27] Super Spec HP interior latex paint 0.48 34
The Natural Paint Company [28] Casein marble interior paint 0.00 82

Products and recipes

Types of Natural Paints

Water-based paint

Water-based paints are the best choices for an environmentally-friendly solvent[verification needed]. Distemper and lime wash are two popular examples.[14]

Casein or Milk paint

Casein paint is made from a protein commonly found in dairy, and is often called "milk paint" or "milk-based paint." This paint is mold resistant, durable and compostable.[14] However, if not allowed to dry properly, milk-based paint can sour or mold.[29]

Tempera or Egg paint

Egg-based paint is durable and quick to dry. It dries to a glossy finish.[14]

Flour paint

Flour paint, though thick and tough on brushes, can be used on a wide range of household surfaces including wallpaper and drywall.[14]

Oil-based paint

Commonly made from linseed oil, natural oil-based paints are durable and have a velvety texture.[14]

Recipes

Here are some recipes on Appropedia:

Examples of Manufactured Natural Paints

Manufacturer Product Qualities Advantages
Ecotrend Paint[30] Egg-based interior paint Anti-mold

Anti-bacterial

120 colors
No VOCs

No harmful chemicals

Odorless
The Natural Paint Company[28] Natural primers

Vegan primer

Interior paints of chalk, lime, plant-based casein, marble powder and clay
Unlimited palette choice

Stain-covering capability
No VOCs

Organic

Hypo-allergenic

See also

References

  1. Photo courtesy of Heather Brown.
  2. Building with Earth, Chelsea Green Publishing Company, 2001
  3. This information according to http://ezproxy.humboldt.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=afh&AN=4096867&site=ehost-live
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 This information according to http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/selecting-green-paint
  5. This information according to http://www.naturalpigments.com/education/article.asp?ArticleID=19
  6. 6.0 6.1 This information according to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_tempera
  7. This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Colin_Campbell_Cooper_-_Flatiron_Building.JPG
  8. This image from http://farm1.static.flickr.com/40/100761143_226e540b49.jpg
  9. This information according to http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/munch/
  10. This information according to http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:File.Nirmal_Painting.jpeg
  11. Photo courtesy of Bill Steen.
  12. 12.0 12.1 This information according to CCAT natural paint project.
  13. Photo courtesy of Heather Brown.
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4 14.5 14.6 14.7 14.8 This information is according to Natural paint basics
  15. 15.0 15.1 This information is according to http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html
  16. This information is according to Painting the Town Green Aberdeen Proving Ground’s Paint Pilot Project
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 This information according to Storing and Disposing of Paint from Your Home by OCAPP
  18. This information according to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/trash/disphhw.htm
  19. This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm
  20. 20.0 20.1 This information according to http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/condemo/paint/
  21. 21.0 21.1 21.2 This information according to http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/home/268680/natural_house_paintsgood_enough_to_eat.html
  22. This information according to http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/p2au/pps/hhwp/paint/latex.htm
  23. 23.0 23.1 This information according to http://www.mikewye.co.uk/TheBenefitsofNaturalPaints.pdf
  24. This information according to http://www.bot.yildiz.edu.tr/ids09/_data/_readings/DESIGN%20AND%20DETAILING%20FOR%20DECONST.pdf
  25. 25.0 25.1 This information according to http://www.seattle.gov/purchasing/pdf/RPNPaint.pdf
  26. This information according to http://www.utilitysafeguard.com/Krylon-Paint/Industrial-Coatings/Rust-Tough-Acrylic-Enamel_11/
  27. This information according to Benjamin Moore® Super Spec HP® Latex Flat Fire Retardant P59
  28. 28.0 28.1 This information according to http://www.naturalpaint.com.au/
  29. This information according to Paula Baker-Laporte, Erica Elliot and John Banta, "Prescriptions for A Healthy House. A Practical guide for Architects, Builders & Homeowners." New Society Publishers, 2001.
  30. This information according to http://www.naturalinteriorpaint.com/about.html
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