Sticklac

Natural Characteristics

Sticklac is a natural resin produced by the lac insect (Kerria lacca), which lives on various host trees in tropical regions. During its growth, the insect secretes resin around the branches, gradually forming a hard layer of natural lac.

Sticklac is an important raw material for producing Seedlac, Shellac, natural varnishes, coatings, and other industrial products. Its biological origin and natural degradability also make it suitable for manufacturers seeking renewable raw materials.

The material typically has a reddish-brown to dark red color. It contains a high proportion of natural resin and is collected, cleaned, and graded before further processing or export.

What Is Sticklac?

Sticklac is the raw form of lac resin formed directly on the branches of host trees. The resin is secreted by lac insects during their growth and gradually covers the branches with a hard protective layer. At harvest, branches containing mature lac resin are cut and collected. The material obtained at this stage is commonly known as Sticklac.

After harvesting, the raw material is initially cleaned to remove branches, leaves, dust, and other foreign materials. It can then be processed into Seedlac or further refined into Shellac. Sticklac generally has a hard structure and a reddish-brown appearance. Its high natural resin content makes it a valuable raw material for further processing.

Characteristics of the Lac Insect

The lac insect, Kerria lacca, is a small scale insect that lives on suitable host trees. During its life cycle, the insect feeds on plant sap and produces natural resin around the branches.

The resin gradually accumulates and forms a protective layer around the insects and the branches. This resin layer becomes the main raw material collected as Sticklac.

The insect population and resin production depend on the host tree, climate, season, and growing conditions. Suitable host trees and proper cultivation practices are therefore important for maintaining a stable supply of quality lac resin.

Distribution of Sticklac in Vietnam

In Vietnam, lac insects can develop on many different host tree species. They grow well in warm and humid environments with suitable host plants.

Natural and cultivated sources of Sticklac are concentrated mainly in the Northwestern and northern mountainous regions of Vietnam. These areas provide favorable conditions for lac insect development and lac resin production.

Dien Bien and surrounding mountainous areas are among the important sources of natural lac materials in Vietnam. The local supply supports both domestic processing and export markets.

Harvesting and Processing of Sticklac

Sticklac is generally harvested during two main seasons each year, depending on local climate and the development cycle of the lac insect. To produce a suitable supply of raw material, farmers select appropriate host trees and introduce lac insects around April and May. During their development, the insects secrete resin around the branches. The resin gradually becomes thicker and harder as the insects mature.

When the resin reaches the appropriate stage, branches covered with lac are cut and collected. The harvested material is then brought to the processing area for preliminary cleaning. Leaves, small branches, dust, and other large impurities are removed before further processing. The raw material may also be soaked in water for approximately two days to help remove insect remains and other materials attached to the resin.

After cleaning, Sticklac is dried under suitable conditions. Excessive heat should be avoided because the resin may soften, become sticky, and form large lumps. Once sufficiently dry, the material is sorted according to size, cleanliness, and quality. It can then be supplied as raw Sticklac or processed further into Seedlac and Shellac.

Quality and Storage

The quality of Sticklac depends on the source of the raw material, harvesting season, host tree, and processing methods. High-quality material generally has a natural reddish-brown color, high resin content, low moisture, and limited foreign matter. Proper cleaning and grading are important for manufacturers using Sticklac as a raw material for Seedlac and Shellac production. The quality of the raw material can directly affect subsequent processing efficiency.

This product should be packed in suitable packaging and stored in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight and excessive humidity should be avoided. The product should also be kept away from high temperatures. Proper storage helps maintain its natural characteristics during transportation and long-term storage.

Applications of Sticklac

Sticklac is primarily used as a raw material for producing Seedlac and Shellac. Through further cleaning and refining, the resin can be processed into different grades of Shellac. Shellac derived from Sticklac is widely used in wood finishing, natural varnishes, coatings, and surface treatments. It can provide a smooth protective film while enhancing the natural appearance of wood.

Sticklac is also used in the production of various natural resin products. Depending on the processing method, its derivatives can serve different industrial and commercial applications. The natural origin of Sticklac makes it particularly attractive to manufacturers looking for renewable and bio-based raw materials.

Where to buy Sticklac ?

Dien Bien Agri supplies natural Sticklac sourced from Vietnam’s Northwestern region. The raw material is carefully selected, cleaned, and graded before packaging. We supply Sticklac to customers involved in Seedlac, Shellac, natural resin, coating, varnish, and other related industries. Product specifications and packaging can be discussed according to each customer’s requirements.

Dien Bien Agri can provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) and technical documents upon request to support the documentation and quality control requirements of business customers.We also support export orders with suitable packaging and logistics arrangements. Customers can contact us for samples, specifications, and commercial quotations.

Sticklac is a suitable choice for businesses looking for natural lac resin from Vietnam for further processing and industrial applications.

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

Contact us for more information:

Tel/WhatsApp: +84.973.447.926.

Email: nongsandienbien.vn@gmail.com

Add: Thanh Minh Commune, Dien Bien City, Vietnam

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