Vesipohjainen

Vesipohjainen is the Finnish term for "water-based," used to describe products and formulations in which water is the primary solvent or continuous phase. The term appears in consumer and industrial contexts to differentiate from solvent-based or oil-based alternatives.

In paints and coatings, vesipohjainen maali refers to coatings whose binder is dispersed in water rather than in organic solvents. Advantages include lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, easier cleanup with soap and water, generally milder odor, and reduced flammability. Performance varies: some products dry slower and may have reduced water resistance or color stability unless modern polymers are used.

Beyond coatings, vesipohjainen can describe inks, adhesives, cosmetics, and household cleaners that use water as the main carrier. In cosmetics, water-based formulations are common for lighter textures and skin compatibility, though film-forming properties and pigment stabilization require specific emulsifiers and polymers.

Regulatory and environmental considerations: water-based products often comply with stricter VOC limits and environmental standards, contributing to reduced air pollution and occupational exposure. Proper handling, disposal of waste water, and consumer safety data are important.

Origin of the term: vesipohjainen is formed from ves- "water" and pohjainen "based on," a common productive compound in Finnish for describing solvent or medium.