Biodegradation of paints: A current status

Paint and painting has been practiced since ancient times. Several paints of varying chemistry have been in use for domestic and industrial purposes. The painted surfaces undergo damage or discolored due to natural weathering, and the growth and activity of living organisms. The knowledge of paints and their composition is essential to understand their fate in the natural environmental settings. Microorganisms participate in the mineralization of paints through biofilm formations on the surfaces like stone buildings causing aesthetic and structural damage. Various types of organisms are involved in paint spoilage and they include bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoa. The interactions between these organisms can enhance or retard the overall rate of paint biodegradation. In this review a brief description of the paints and their compositions, paint properties, paint biodetoriation and biodegradation are described. © Indian Society for Education and Environment (iSee)