Abstract: A noncarbonated complex for use in preparing coating compositions is comprised of the reaction product of a basic oxide selected from the group consisting of calcium and magnesium oxide and mixtures thereof; an organic sulfonic acid having an equivalent weight of about 300 to 750 grams per equivalent; and water. The molar ratio of basic oxide to organic sulfonic acid is at least 10:1. The molar ratio of water to basic oxide is less than 2.5:1 and greater than 0.5:1 when the basic oxide is at least 30 percent calcium oxide. The molar ratio of water to basic oxide is less than 0.7:1 and greater than 0.3:1 when the basic oxide is less than 30 percent calcium oxide.