Are Mineral Spirits and Acetone Different?

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Mineral spirits and acetone are both solvents that professionals rely on to perform a variety of tasks. These two chemical compounds also have several at-home uses. However, they are not interchangeable solvents and therefore should not be treated as such to prevent surface damage, health risks, and other harm. 

In this blog post, we’ll compare and contrast mineral spirits and acetone to help you determine when and when not to use each solvent. 

mineral spirits

Main Similarities and Differences of Mineral Spirits and Acetone

  • Similarities
    • Both chemicals are organic solvents and are often used as paint thinners. The two also clean a variety of surfaces and are effective at removing paint and other kinds of tough marks and grime in home settings. They also are great for using as degreasers in the  
  • Differences 
    • While they both think paint is effective at cleaning, the specific instances in which they are used to thin paint and clean is relative. Acetone is best for thinning lacquers (think nail polish) while mineral spirits are best for thinning oil-based paint (think wall paint and other artistic paints). Confusing the two in will affect the consistency of the paint and the end product once it’s been applied. 
    • Acetone should also not be used on as many surfaces as mineral spirits. This solvent characteristically eats away at plastic and has the ability to harm other delicate surfaces. Mineral spirits are safe on plastic when used in small amounts and are great for cleaning wood surfaces including furniture. 

Different Properties of Mineral Spirits and Acetone

While the two may have different jobs they’re best suited to help perform, they also have different chemical compositions and therefore properties.  

  • Mineral Spirits: 
    • Less soluble 
    • Less of a fire hazard 
    • Less chance of injury or other health risks
    • Odorless and preferable for at-home use 
  • Acetone: 
    • Water-soluble
    • Highly flammable 
    • Not safe to inhale in large quantities and requires proper ventilation 
    • Destroys plastic  
    • Strong odor 

Unsure of Which Is Best For You? 

Ecolink’s team of chemical experts is standing by to help find the best chemical product for your company’s needs. We offer a free consultation and quote service and are available to meet over the phone or by email. 

Need to Buy in Bulk? 

Visit Ecolink’s shop to view all of our available chemical products and bulk sizing options. We offer a variety of sizes ranging from 5-gallon pails to 55-gallon drums which are not only a cost-effective option but also a sustainable choice. 

what are mineral spirits used for?

What Are Mineral Spirits Used For?

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Mineral spirits, also known as white spirits, are petroleum-based solvents that have a variety of everyday and industrial uses. Whether you’re a DIYer or some sort of industry professional, read on to learn unique and effective uses for this solvent.

mineral spirits

What Are Mineral Spirits Used For? 

  • Paint Thinner –

Mineral spirits are a great choice for thinning or diluting any oil-based paint. Simply add a small amount to a paint try, add the paint, and mix. Add more of the solvent to thin paint even more. Repeat as necessary until the paint has reached your desired consistency. 

  • Degreaser –

Clean all your grease-caked parts by submerging them into a bucket of this solvent. The solvent will quickly degrease the metal tool, all you have to do is wipe away the remaining excess with a clean cloth. Here is a list of some items the solvent can help degrease:

    • Automotive parts 
    • Bicycles & Bicycle chains 
    • Tools (garden tools, wrenches, etc.) 
    • Industrial equipment 
    • Paintbrushes
    • & other metals
  • Clean Gum & Sticky Surfaces –

Due to a white spirit’s emulsifying properties, they are great at cleaning sticky surfaces and removing fresh gum from floors and counters. It’s important to note that this solvent should not be used directly on clothing, but is great on a variety of other solid surfaces: 

    • Removes residue on plastic surfaces leftover from price tag stickers 
    • Removes sap from sheers and other gardening tools 
  • Clean Windows –

Apply white spirit to a dry cloth and use it to remove dust, scuffs, and other marks from windows. This is a great solution for cleaning windows in an effective way that doesn’t leave behind pesky streak marks.

  • Clean Wood Surfaces –

This type of solvent is wood-friendly and is a great solution to use to clean a variety of wood surfaces such as: 

    • Doors 
    • Desks 
    • Flooring 
    • Furniture 

This solvent will remove dust, dirt, grease, paint, and scuff marks. In addition, it adds luster to the surface and is great for restoring furniture and other well-used wooden items.  

NOTE: Always make sure to remove the solvent residue after cleaning by taking a clean cloth and wiping it over the surface. 

Looking to Buy Solvents? 

Ecolink offers high-quality chemicals trusted by professionals all over the world. Visit our website to view our sizing and pricing options.  

Have a question? Reach out to one of our expert team members today!    

is turpentine the same as mineral spirits

Is Turpentine The Same As Mineral Spirits 

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Is turpentine the same as mineral spirits? No, it is not. While turpentine and mineral spirits may share some similar applications they are different as turpentine is derived from pine wood, while mineral spirits are derived from petroleum. However, because turpentine and mineral spirits are used in similar practices, many people consider them to be closely related. Some notable characteristics of turpentine are that it is insoluble in water, odorless, and contains poisonous ingredients like hydrocarbons. If you need help deciding between turpentine and mineral spirits for your particular applications, Ecolink can help! Our skilled team of chemists is here to help you understand the specific benefits and applications of each chemical to ensure you pick the best solution for your needs 

Benefits and Applications of Turpentine and Mineral Spirits:

  • Effective solvent properties 
  • Good cleaning agent 
  • Odorless 
  • Fast drying 
  • Degreasing and extraction solvent 
  • Varnishes 
  • Lacquer 
  • Paints 

Benefits shopping for mineral spirits with Ecolink offer you: 

  • Bulk Supply –  Ecolink offers bulk sizing for all our chemical products. Offering convenient sizing from 5- gallon buckets to 55-gallon drums we can accommodate facilities of different sizes and provide the benefits of bulk pricing.
  • Knowledge and Experience –  Is turpentine the same as mineral spirits? Let the experts explain the differences! Ecolink has over 30 years of knowledge and experience to share with our clients and make sure you choose the best chemicals for your applications. We will also provide proper use and storage instructions to keep yourself and your facility safe.
  • High Quality – You can trust that the chemicals you receive from Ecolink are high quality, stable, and safe to use with proper use and handling practices.
  • Eco-Friendly – In addition to a large list of traditional chemicals, Ecolink also offers a line of green chemicals alternatives that are environmentally preferred. At Ecolink we are dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of the chemical industry and can help you make your practice more sustainable. 

Is Turpentine The Same As Mineral Spirits?

If you are asking questions like “is turpentine the same as mineral spirits?” and need more clarification to choose the best chemicals for your needs, Contact Ecolink Here! One of our knowledgeable experts will be able to answer your questions and provide you with the right chemical to get the job done!