Overview
EN ISO 4618:2023 - Paints and varnishes - Vocabulary (ISO 4618:2023) is the third-edition vocabulary standard for the paints and varnishes sector, adopted by CEN in February 2023. It defines standardized terms and definitions used for coating materials (paints, varnishes and raw materials) to ensure consistent technical language across manufacturing, testing, specification and regulation. The document replaces EN ISO 4618:2014 and contains updated, added and removed entries to reflect current technology and terminology.
Key Topics
- Scope and structure: formal glossary of terms and definitions relevant to coating materials; includes a bibliography and index.
- Core vocabulary: definitions of foundational terms such as binder, coating, film, pigment, additive, adhesion, abrasion and many more.
- New and revised entries: the 2023 edition adds terms like brush marks, catalyst, clouding, nanoparticle, nanocomposite coating, SVOC (semi‑volatile organic compound) and others; numerous definitions have been amended to reflect modern practice.
- Deleted terms: some older or redundant terms (for example certain rheology and flow behaviour terms) were removed to streamline the vocabulary.
- Harmonization: terminology for nanotechnologies and pigments/extenders is aligned with ISO 80004 and ISO 18451-1 respectively.
- No normative references: the standard is purely definitional - it does not prescribe test methods or performance requirements.
Applications and Users
EN ISO 4618:2023 is a practical resource for:
- Manufacturers and formulators - consistent terminology for product data sheets, labels and technical literature.
- Testing laboratories and quality managers - unambiguous definitions support reproducible reporting and compliance.
- Specifiers, architects and procurement teams - clear language for tender documents, specifications and contract terms.
- Standards developers and regulators - harmonized vocabulary reduces misinterpretation across related standards and regulations.
- R&D and training - common terms accelerate communication between researchers, suppliers and customers.
Using EN ISO 4618 helps avoid misunderstandings in technical documents, product specifications and international trade by providing an authoritative, SEO-relevant vocabulary for the paint and coatings industry.
Related Standards
For online lookup of related terms, refer to the ISO Online Browsing Platform and the IEC Electropedia.
