Paint is made up of solvents, resins/binders, and pigments. Solvents dissolve the film former and control the rate of cure. Resins hold the paint together and define its properties. Pigments provide color, protection, and film thickness. Modern coatings use synthetic resins that are more resistant to harsh environments and outperform paints based on drying oils and natural resins. Coatings provide barrier protection, galvanic protection, and inhibitive protection against corrosion.