Seedlac

Natural Characteristics 

Seedlac is a natural resin processed from Sticklac after harvesting, cleaning, and crushing. It originates from the lac insect (Kerria lacca), which lives on various host trees in tropical regions. During its growth, the insect secretes natural resin around the branches, forming a layer of lac resin. After harvesting, the resin-covered branches are collected and cleaned. Leaves, bark, insects, and other large impurities are removed before further processing. The material is then washed, dried, crushed, and screened to produce Seedlac.

Seedlac has a small granular or flake-like form. This makes it convenient for further processing and refining. It is an important raw material for Shellac production and other industrial applications. Because of its natural origin and film-forming properties, Seedlac is widely used in coatings, wood finishing, and handicrafts. It is also suitable for industries looking for bio-based natural materials.

What Is Seedlac?

Seedlac is a processed form of Sticklac that has been cleaned, washed, dried, and crushed into small pieces or granules. The original material comes from natural resin secreted by lac insects on host tree branches. After harvesting, branches, leaves, and large impurities are removed. The resin is then washed to reduce insect remains and other unwanted materials.

Depending on the production process, Seedlac can be processed into different sizes and quality grades. The crushed form provides a larger surface area for subsequent processing. This characteristic is important for manufacturers producing Shellac and other refined lac products.

Appearance and Characteristics

Seedlac is generally reddish-brown, dark brown, or red-brown in appearance. Its color may vary depending on the raw material, harvesting season, and processing method. The product has the characteristic odor of natural lac resin. Its resin content makes it suitable for further refining into Shellac.

Seedlac can be supplied in different grades according to cleanliness, color, and processing requirements. The final specifications can be discussed based on the customer’s application.

How Is Seedlac Produced?

The production process starts with mature Sticklac collected from suitable host trees. Workers select branches with well-developed layers of lac resin. After harvesting, the branches are brought to the processing area. Leaves, bark, and large foreign materials are removed before washing.

The raw material may then be soaked and washed to remove insect remains and other materials attached to the resin. After washing, the material is dried under suitable conditions. Once the required moisture level is reached, the resin is crushed and screened. This process helps produce Seedlac with a more consistent particle size.

The cleaning and grading processes have a direct effect on the quality of the finished material. Cleaner Seedlac is generally more suitable for subsequent Shellac refining.

Seedlac Washing Grades

The washing process removes the natural dye from sticklac, along with other impurities such as sand, wood debris, and insect remains. This operation typically lasts between two to three hours and requires large volumes of water. A rotary mechanism inside the barrel agitates the sticklac, aiding in the thorough cleansing of the material.

The used water, discharged from the barrel, is often spread over fields to dry. Occasionally, the dried residue is repurposed as a pesticide or fertilizer, though this practice has become less common in recent years. The duration and method of washing significantly affect the quality of the resulting seedlac.

– One-Time Washing: The raw lac is washed with water without soda for approximately 45 minutes. This is the basic washing method.

– Two-Time Washing: The raw lac is first washed with approximately 750 g of soda per 500 kg of raw material for 20 minutes. It is then washed with clean water for another 25 minutes. The process is completed when the water passing through a 60-mesh screen becomes visibly clear.

– Three-Time Washing: The raw lac is first washed with water for 20 minutes. It is then washed with approximately 1 kg of soda per 500 kg of raw material for 45–60 minutes. Finally, the material is washed with clean water for 30–35 minutes. The process continues until the discharged water becomes clear. This method is suitable for producing Seedlac with a higher level of cleanliness.

 

                                  Single wash                                                                       Double wash                                                                  Triple wash

Drying Process

After washing, Seedlac is spread evenly on a flat surface for natural drying. Workers use a flat wooden rake with a long handle to turn and spread the material. This helps the Seedlac dry more evenly and reduces the risk of the material sticking together.

Drying usually takes around 1–2 hours, depending on weather conditions. Therefore, the washing process is normally completed by around 2:00 PM. The material should be dried under suitable conditions and protected from excessive heat. This helps maintain the quality and natural characteristics of the Seedlac.

Applications of Seedlac

Seedlac is primarily used as a raw material for Shellac production. After further refining, it can be processed into different Shellac grades for various applications. In the furniture industry, Shellac made from lac resin is used for wood polishing and surface finishing. It helps enhance the natural appearance and grain of wood.

Seedlac is also used as a raw material for natural varnishes and coating products. Other applications include inks, adhesives, and surface finishing materials. The required specifications may vary depending on the final application. Cleanliness, color, moisture, and resin characteristics are important factors for industrial processing.

Because Seedlac is derived from a natural biological source, it is also suitable for manufacturers seeking renewable and bio-based raw materials.

Packaging and Storage

Seedlac should be packed in suitable packaging to protect it from moisture. The product should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight and excessive heat should be avoided. High humidity may affect the condition and quality of the material during storage.

Dien Bien Agri can supply Seedlac in packaging suitable for different customer requirements. Packaging and quantities can be customized for domestic and export orders.

Where to buy Seedlac? 

Dien Bien Agri supplies Seedlac selected from natural lac resources in Vietnam. The material is cleaned, processed, and graded before packaging. Our processing procedures are designed to maintain consistent quality and reduce unwanted impurities. Different specifications can be discussed according to the customer’s production requirements.

We can provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) and technical documents upon request to support the quality control and documentation needs of business customers. Seedlac is suitable for manufacturers, Shellac producers, coating companies, furniture manufacturers, and other industrial users looking for natural lac resin from Vietnam.

Read more: 5 things about seedlac.of Dien Bien Agri

Contact us for more information:

Tel/WhatsApp: +84.973.447.926.

Email: nongsandienbien.vn@gmail.com

Address: Thanh Minh Commune, Dien Bien City, Vietnam

Factory: Bai Dai Village, Tien Xuan Commune, Thach That District, Ha Noi City, Vietnam