A resin is a broad material category covering many natural or synthetic organic substances used as solid or hardenable binding materials. Some are mixtures of small molecules; others contain polymers or reactive precursors.
The term alone therefore gives neither a unique formula nor a complete curing mechanism. Whether a resin hardens by solvent loss, cooling, or formation of new chemical crosslinks must be specified for the particular material.
Gamboge is a yellow gum-resin material obtained from certain plants and historically used as a pigment. It contains a mixture of organic constituents rather than one pure yellow molecule.
Its color and interaction with a binder depend on that composition and on particle dispersion. Distinguishing a natural colorant material from an isolated chemical compound is important when interpreting historical pigment descriptions.
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Resin is a sticky, flammable organic substance that is typically secreted by plants, especially trees. It is composed mainly of terpenes and other organic compounds. Resins are used by plants as a defense mechanism against injury and pathogens, as they can seal wounds and deter herbivores. In addition to its natural occurrence, resin has many industrial applications.