A large group of modern binders, including PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral).

The vinyl compounds, polymerised to various degrees, are available in two forms - solid, as a fine powder, and liquid, dispersed in water.

The solid forms are soluble in organic solvents (alcohols, esters, ketones, aromatic hydrocarbons).

PVC, when suitably plasticised, forms the basis of high solids industrial coatings, with excellent resistance to chemicals and weather. The solvent soluble vinyl copolymers are also compatible with other binders to upgrade properties.

The liquid form is an emulsion, usually a copolymer of PVA with an acrylate to give flexibility. Used mainly in household emulsion paints, it has the advantages of non-flammability, low odour and ease of application. However, once dry, the vinyl types are still somewhat sensitive to water.

For exterior work, acrylic copolymers of Ethyl Acrylate and Methyl Methacrylate, usually referred to as latex coatings, are considered superior for water resistance.

In the emulsion, or water-borne paints, the pigment is dispersed in the continuous phase (the water) then intermixed with the latex (copolymer), plus additives such as thickening agents and fungicides to form the complete paint.