resin in varnish crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "resin in varnish crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LAC: A sticky resinous secretion of a scale insect (Laccifer lacca), widely used in shellac and varnishes.
5 Letters
COPAL: A hard, transparent resin, often fossilized, derived from various tropical trees and valued for its use in varnishes and polishes.
6 Letters
DAMMAR: A natural resin obtained from trees of the family Dipterocarpaceae, commonly used in oil paints, lacquers, and varnishes.
More About "resin in varnish crossword clue"
Resins have been essential components in varnishes for centuries, prized for their ability to create durable, protective, and often glossy coatings. Historically, natural resins like copal, lac, and dammar were the primary ingredients. These organic compounds, derived from trees or insects, would be dissolved in solvents such as turpentine or alcohol to form the liquid varnish.
The choice of resin significantly influences the properties of the final varnish, including its hardness, flexibility, drying time, and resistance to water and UV light. For instance, copal resins were highly valued for their hardness and clarity, making them suitable for fine furniture and artistic applications. Lac, originating from the lac insect, is the basis of shellac, a versatile finish known for its quick drying and excellent sealing properties. Dammar, a softer resin, is often used in conservation and artistic varnishes due to its flexibility and reversibility.
While synthetic resins now dominate many industrial varnish formulations, natural resins like those found in this crossword clue continue to be used in traditional crafting, restoration, and specialty applications, and remain a fascinating topic for their historical and chemical significance.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider common natural substances: Many crossword clues relating to materials often point to natural resources like resins, fibers, or minerals. Think about substances that are extracted or secreted.
- Pay attention to letter count: The number of letters is often the most critical hint. Knowing that "resin in varnish" could be 3, 5, or 6 letters immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Check for common "crosswordese": Some words appear more frequently in crosswords due to their unique letter patterns or common associations. LAC and COPAL are prime examples of such "crosswordese."
- Use intersecting letters: If you have letters filled in from crossing words, use them to eliminate possibilities or confirm your answer. This is especially helpful for shorter words like LAC.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of resins are commonly used in varnishes?
Varnishes commonly use natural resins like copal, amber, dammar, and lac (shellac), as well as synthetic resins like alkyds, polyurethanes, and acrylics, depending on the desired properties and application.
Why are natural resins common crossword answers?
Natural resins are frequently found in crossword puzzles due to their distinct, often short names (e.g., LAC, COPAL) and their historical significance in various crafts and industries, making them good candidates for concise clues.
What's the difference between resin and varnish?
A resin is a natural or synthetic viscous substance that hardens into a solid. Varnish, on the other hand, is a clear, hard, protective finish or film, historically made by dissolving a resin in a solvent (like oil or alcohol) to create a liquid coating.