Gum Damar (also spelled dammar or damar) is a natural resin obtained primarily from trees of the genera Shorea Javanica. It is widely used in industries such as varnish production, Incense, traditional medicine, and art (especially in painting and lithography). The term “damar” comes from Indonesian word for resin or torch.
Types of Gum Damar (Cat’s Eye)
This Type also called Mata Kucing, refers to high-quality damar that is known for its small, translucent, bead-like appearance resembling a cat’s eye. This type is prized in industries such as art, varnish production, and traditional medicine for its clarity and purity.
Physical Properties :
- Ash Content: 0.02 %
- Color, 50% Solution: 3.0 Gardner
- Acid Value: 25.72 mg KOH/g
- Saponification Value: 44.0 mg KOH/g
- Toluene Insoluble Matter: 0.16%
- Loss on Drying: 0.74%
- Solubility in Petroleum Benzene: 79.43%
- Softening point: 82.0’ C
- Bulk Density: 548.0 g/l
- Moisture and Volatile Matter: 0.74%
Chemical Composition
Gum damar is primarily composed of complex triterpenoid resins and can contain up to 40% resin acids, such as dammarolic acid and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. It also includes essential oils in trace amounts that contribute to its pleasant scent.
Grades of Gum Damar
- ABX: Gum damar ABX is a premium-grade natural resin highly valued in the production of varnishes, art materials, and coatings. Its superior purity and physical properties make it the preferred choice for projects that require high-quality finishes.
- CDX: CDX gum damar is a lower grade natural resin than ABX, suitable for more general applications in varnishes, adhesives, and art supplies. Despite its smaller size compared to ABX, CDX gum damar remains a valuable material in many industries that do not require top-level performance.
- DEX: Due to its lower cost and ability to burn with a pleasant scent, DEX damar may also be used in the production of incense or lower-grade candles
- Dust: Refers to the fine, powdered form of gum damar resin. This grade is composed of small particles or granules, often created during the processing or handling of higher-grade damars like ABX, CDX, or DEX. Damar dust is typically not used in premium applications, but it has its own utility in various industrial and artistic fields due to its fine texture and lower cost.
- CK/KK: Gum damar CK/KK represents a middle-tier resin that balances quality and cost. While it contains more impurities than ABX, it is still clear enough for use in mid-range varnishes, adhesives, and other industrial applications. CK/KK is valued for its versatility and is suitable for projects where a decent level of purity is necessary, but without the premium price tag of higher grades.
Higher quality resin, often used in premium varnishes and paints.
Industrial Applications
- Varnishes:
- Damar is most commonly used in the production of spirit varnishes. These varnishes are preferred for their ability to produce a glossy and durable finish on wood, paper, and canvas.
- It is favored in oil painting and art restoration due to its easy reversibility and resistance to yellowing over time.
- Adhesives: Gum damar is used in various adhesives because of its tackiness and ability to form flexible films.
- Food Coating and Glazing Agent: Damar can be used as a food glazing agent, classified under E number E914. It helps in providing a protective, glossy finish to confectioneries and certain food products.
- Traditional Medicine: In parts of Southeast Asia, damar is used in folk medicine to treat wounds, respiratory problems, and gastrointestinal disorders.
- Incense and Candles: Due to its pleasant fragrance when burnt, gum damar is used in incense production and natural candles.
- Lithography: In lithographic processes, gum damar serves as a medium in certain traditional printing techniques.
Benefits
- Non-toxic: It is safe for use in food-related products, varnishes, and other applications that involve human contact.
- Glossy Finish: Damar produces a highly glossy finish, ideal for varnishes and art applications.
- Long Shelf Life: Its stability and low reactivity make it easy to store without significant degradation over time.
Gum damar’s versatile properties make it highly valuable in a wide range of industries, particularly in varnish production, art, and traditional medicine. Its natural origins and non-toxic nature ensure its continued demand in both industrial and artisanal applications.
Please contact us for your gum damar needs.
CV. Media Mitra Indonesia
Whatsapp: +6285648688722
Email: gumdamarsuppliers@gmail.com