Some of these paint cans are called unlined or lined. What are these linings? And what does unlined mean?
Lined cans are lined with either epoxy phenolic or gold phenolic lining. Epoxy phenolic lining is a gray-colored lining that is used for alkaline products, fatty acids, detergents, emulsions, general organic chemicals, surfactants and water-based resins. The epoxy-phenolic linings have been designed to provide outstanding chemical resistance in a pH range of 7.0 – 9.0. Gold phenolic lining is a gold-colored lining that is a good option for solvents and oil-based products. Gold phenolic linings are also FDA approved, which makes them safe for food products.
Unlined paint cans are sprayed or rinsed with a rust inhibitor that helps slow rusting prior to filling the cans with a specific product. Unlined paint cans are good for holding oil-based or solvent coatings.