Paint thinner

A paint thinner is a solvent used to thin oil-based paints. Solvents labeled "paint thinner" are usually mineral spirits having a flash point at about 40 °C (104 °F),[1] the same as some popular brands of charcoal starter.[2]

Common solvents historically used as paint thinners include:[3]

  • Mineral spirits (North America) / White spirit (United Kingdom and Ireland)
  • Acetone
  • Turpentine
  • Naphtha
  • Toluene
  • Lacquer thinner
  • Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)
  • Dimethylformamide (DMF)
  • Glycol ethers, such as 2-Butoxyethanol

Less common solvents used as paint thinner include:[4]

  • Ethylbenzene
  • Xylene
  • n-Butyl acetate
  • Butanol

Health concerns

Exposure to vapors created by paint containing thinner or its cleanup may be hazardous. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists has established threshold limit values (TLVs) for most of these compounds. TLV is defined as the maximum concentration in air which can be breathed by a normal person (i.e., excluding children, pregnant women, etc.) in the course of 40 hours per week (a typical American work week), day after day through their work life without long-term ill effects.

In underdeveloped countries, workers commonly experience much higher exposure to these chemicals with consequent damage to their health.

Addiction

Paint thinners are often used as an inhalant, due to its accessibility and legality as a drug. Many teenagers become addicted to thinner and due to lack of knowledge, parents and caregivers do not notice it or give it much attention.[5]

See also
  • Environmental impact of paint
  • Substance-induced psychosis

References
  1. "Is Paint Thinner Flammable?". Retrieved 2022-07-26.
  2. Material Safety Data Sheet (Revised ed.). Wichita, KS: HOC Industries, Inc. 2003. p. 1.
  3. "How To Thin Paint For Sprayer?". 10 October 2021.
  4. "THINNER 219 MSDS" (PDF).
  5. "Paint Thinner Addiction Treatment: Addiction Signs, Causes, And Withdrawal Symptoms". Lybrate. Retrieved 2022-07-26.


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