Enamel paint is paint that air-dries to a hard, usually glossy, finish, used for coating surfaces that are outdoors or otherwise subject to hard wear or variations in temperature; it should not be confused with decorated objects in "painted enamel", where vitreous enamel is applied with brushes and fired in a kiln.
Typically the term "enamel paint" is used to describe oil-based covering products, usually with a significant amount of gloss in them, however recently many latex or water-based paints have adopted the term as well. The term today means "hard surfaced paint" and usually is in reference to paint brands of higher quality, floor coatings of a high gloss finish, or spray paints. Most enamel paints are alkyd resin based. Some enamel paints have been made by adding varnish to oil-based paint.
Uses and categories of enamel paint
- Floor enamel – May be used for concrete, stairs, basements, porches, and patios.
- Fast dry enamel – Can dry within 10–15 minutes of application. Ideal for refrigerators, counters, and other industrial finishes.
- High-temp enamel – May be used for engines, brakes, exhaust, and BBQs.
- Enamel paint is also used on wood to make it resistant to the elements via the waterproofing and rotproofing properties of enamel. Generally, treated surfaces last much longer and are much more resistant to wear than untreated surfaces.
- Nail Enamel – to color nails is also called as enamel and it comes in many varieties for fast drying, color retention, gloss retention etc..
- Epoxy enamel, Polyurethane Enamel etc used in protective coating / industrial painting purpose in chemical and petrochemical industries for anti corrosion purposes.
Reference : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enamel_paint