Gum rosin is a natural resin extracted from the sap of pine trees. It is usually in the form of dry clumps of translucent amber color pieces. Variations of different pine rosins is usually based on the type of pine trees as well as the distillation process and packaging methods.
Most rosins are in different shades of amber color and have a softening point of 70 up to 80 degrees celsius. Partially burned or overheated rosin (during the destillation process) may be dark brown or black color.
Rosin comes in various forms, influenced by the production method and its physical properties.
Some manufacturers package rosin in metal drums. They simply pour hot rosin in a drum and let it cool down and solidify. Others pour rosin in molds and crush them before packaging in bags.
Other variations of rosin are generally called modified rosin. Often the modifications involves a chemical reactions and chemical change. Since gum rosin is mainly composed of organic acids such as abiatic acid, it can react with alcohols and alkaline materials to form other compounds such as rosin esters and rosin soaps. In addition, rosin acids are unsaturated and they can accept more hydrogen. That is why hydrogenation is another method for changing the physical and chemical properties of rosin.
Below is a partial list of the most common forms of modified rosin:
- Highly Hydrogenated Rosin
- Partially Hydrogenated Rosin
- Glycerol Ester of Hydrogenated Rosin
- Glycerol Ester of Hydrogenated Rosin
- Non-Crystallizing Rosin
- Polymerized Rosin
- Gum Rosin Rosinates
For specialized applications and technical support regarding rosin products, please contact Chemical Store at (973) 405-6248