The important characteristics that grounds should have are (1) adhesion, 2) flexibility, 3) penetration control, 4) a type of surface to which upper layers can adhere well, 5) blister and crack resistance, and 6) good application properties. Careful selection of ingredients in an oil ground is essential to impart these qualities to the ground. Ground natural calcite (calcium carbonate) in combination with lead white (basic lead carbonate) and a maximum chalk resistant grade of rutile titanium dioxide have proven to be an excellent choice of pigments in such grounds.
Pigments
We make Rublev Lead Alkyd Ground using all three white pigments; calcite, lead white and titanium white in just the right proportions to make a film that remains flexible, tough and has some degree of absorbency.
Does Not Contain Zinc Oxide
Many manufacturers use zinc white (zinc oxide) to get a brighter white in their grounds and paint. Zinc oxide is not recommended in oil grounds, since it tends to cause blistering and cracking in oil paint and grounds—we have not used any zinc in this product.
Driers
A blend of cobalt, zirconium and calcium driers have been added in precise amounts to ensure rapid drying of the primer once it is applied.Rublev Lead Alkyd Ground is a blend of white pigments in alkyd for a semi-absorbent ground ideal for oil and alkyd painting. It is formulated specifically for priming non-absorbent rigid supports, such as ACM or copper, but can also be used on absorbent rigid supports, such as solid wood or hardboard or canvas mounted on rigid supports. While it is best applied to rigid supports, it can be applied to stretched canvas. Rublev Lead Alkyd Ground typically dries within eight hours. Rublev Colours Lead Alkyd Ground has a high concentration of pigments so usually only two coats are necessary, but more coats create a smoother, less absorbent surface. Apply directly onto ACM or copper panels with the recommended preparation below, or onto wood surfaces. Rublev Lead Alkyd Ground is an excellent foundation for oil and alkyd paints.
Storage
Rublev Lead Alkyd Ground contains an anti-skinning agent to prevent skinning and drying in the can during storage. If kept tightly closed the contents can be expected to last for indefinitely, but we recommend purchasing only an amount that can be used within one year.
Health Label
DANGER
CONTAINS LEAD
DO NOT APPLY TO SURFACES ACCESSIBLE TO CHILDREN OR PREGNANT WOMEN.
Must be used exclusively as material for the purposes of arts, crafts or hobbies, not for use by children