Paraloid B-72

A registered trademark for a clear, colorless, thermoplastic acrylic resin. Paraloid B-72 (formerly called Acryloid B-72 in the United States) is composed of an ethyl methacrylate (70%) and methyl acrylate (30%) copolymer. It was a shown to be a very stable resin for use in conservation (Feller 1972). Initially, Paraloid B-72 was supplied as white irregular lumps with a slight acrylic acid smell and a composition of ethyl methacrylate (68%) and methyl acrylate (28%); by 1976 the product changed to the odorless, transparent globules (de Witte et al 1978). Commercially, Paraloid B-72 is used as a general purpose coating. It produces a stable, wear resistant, nonyellowing finish. It is compatible with vinyl, cellulosic, and silicone resins. In conservation, Paraloid B-72 has been used as a coating, consolidant, and adhesive. Paraloid B-72 is supplied as solid pellets or as a 50% solids solution in toluene (Paraloid B-72 50%).