Mineral Story—How are Keim finishes unique?


KEIM mineral paints are a Bavarian invention by the scientist Adolf Wilhelm Keim, who successfully combined water glass (potassium silicate solution) with inorganic color pigments. This produced a paint that both penetrates and chemically reacts with the mineral substrate , becoming an integral part of the surface where it can never peel or blister. In addition, unsurpassed weather resistance, durability and nonfading color are hallmarks of mineral silicate finishes.

Buildings painted with KEIM paints in the 19th century are still in excellent condition today. Some examples are the "White Eagle" Inn at Stein am Rhein and the City Hall, Schwyz, both of which are in Switzerland and were decorated in 1891. Other long lasting facades in Oslo (1895) and in Traunstein, Germany (1891), are also in excellent condition today.

The catalyst for Adolf Keim's invention was King Ludwig I who had a great passion for the arts. He longed to have fine Italian lime fresco work in his own kingdom but the harsh climate of the Alps destroyed such frescos within a short time. He thus appealed to Bavarian scientists to develop a paint that was of similar appearance to lime frescos but also had much greater durability.

The unique solution to these requirements was embodied in Keim's invention - a liquid silicate paint that becomes a part of the surface to which it is applied and binds the color pigment into it as well.

KEIM became the leading manufacturer of mineral paints providing only the highest quality, research-based paints with application characteristics prized by painters, and long lasting durability demanded by owners.

 

Click photos below to learn more about all features and benefits.

 

Petrification Process

Permanent bonds, won't peel

Vapor-Permeable

Promotes moisture balance

All Mineral Pigments

U.V. stable, won’t fade

 

Noncombustible

Safe, Class A Fire Rating

Light Refraction

Illuminates dark areas

No Fungus, Algae, or Mold

Cleaner, healthier surfaces

 

 

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