Shellac
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac insect, primarily found in South Asia. It is processed into flakes or powder form and dissolved in alcohol to create a versatile film-forming agent. Shellac provides excellent adhesion, gloss, and moisture resistance, making it widely used as a wood finish, food glaze, and pharmaceutical coating. It is valued for its natural origin, biodegradability, and safe use in food and cosmetic applications.
 Primary UsesÂ
Wood Finishing and Furniture
- Applied as a protective and decorative finish on wood surfaces, providing high gloss and color enhancement.
- Used as a sealer and primer under varnishes and paints to improve adhesion and durability.
- Popular in antique restoration and fine woodworking for its traditional aesthetic qualities.
Food Industry
- Used as a glazing agent/coating for confectionery, fruits, nuts, and pharmaceutical pills to provide shine and moisture barrier.
- Acts as a natural preservative by sealing food surfaces against moisture and contaminants.
Pharmaceuticals
- Employed as a coating for tablets and pills to control release and improve appearance.
- Used in lozenges and candies as a protective film.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics
- Used in lipsticks, nail polishes, and other personal care products for glossy finishes and film formation.
Printing and Packaging
- Applied as a varnish or coating for paper, cardboard, and packaging materials to improve surface quality and protection.
Art Supplies
Utilized in traditional varnishes for paintings and art restoration.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Natural resin (polyesters of aleuritic acid and other fatty acids)
- Common/Trade Name: Shellac
- CAS Number: 9000-59-3
- HS Code: 1301.90
- Synonyms: Lac resin, natural resin
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Flakes, powder, or dissolved in alcohol as liquid shellac
- Color & Odor: Amber to deep reddish-brown; characteristic mild resinous odor
- Solubility: Soluble in ethanol and other alcohols; insoluble in water
- Density: Approx. 1.2 g/cm³ (solid flakes)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Generally considered low hazard; flammable in alcohol solution
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe for food use
- Exposure Limits: Follow standard occupational safety guidelines
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from ignition sources and direct sunlight
- Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags, drums, or bottles (for liquid shellac)
- Shelf Life: 2 years when stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhaling dust or vapors
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with food-grade standards including FDA and FCC for use as food glaze/coating.
- Meets cosmetic ingredient regulations in various regions (e.g., EU Cosmetics Regulation).
- Manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical applications.
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable and environmentally friendly due to natural origin.
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when disposed properly.
Bioaccumulation: Not significant.
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves and goggles recommended during handling of flakes and solutions.
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid ignition sources when working with alcohol-based solutions.
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored away from heat and flames.
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if inhaled; seek medical attention if irritation occurs.
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water; seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if discomfort occurs.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable when dissolved in alcohol; solid flakes are combustible.
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚, or water spray for fires involving shellac or alcohol solutions.
- Special Precautions: Wear protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus if needed.
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, aldehydes, and other organic combustion products.