Turpentine and Linseed Oil are among some of the most popular products in the area of painting, cleaning, and removal. Although they have may seem to be quite similar there are many important differences that separate these two products. This guide will give information covering both similarities and differences between Turpentine and Linseed Oil.
Turpentine
Turpentine is a thin resin that is created from steam distilling pine trees. It is specifically known as the oleoresin which is removed from the longleaf pine tree.Turpentine is often recognizable for its distinctive brownish yellow color. Turpentine is a multi-purpose resin that has many different uses in an array of fields. It is one of the most popular types of paint solvents on the market and is most commonly used as paint thinner by painters both professionally and publicly. Also, as a solvent turpentine is often mixed with beeswax to make furniture wax as a protective coating for wood finishes as well. Turpentine also is used in the production of varnishes and is also added to many cleaning and antibacterial products due to its superior antibacterial properties. Remember, with any usage of turpentine it must be measured exactly (which are usually smaller amounts) due to the potency of this liquid if not it can do major damage to whatever is being worked on. Although, Turpentine is very efficient it is also very dangerous especially to children. If even as little as 15 Ml is ingested turpentine poisoning can occur which causes insomnia, vomiting, headache, coma, and even death, so always keep turpentine sealed and away from small children. Turpentine popularity and usefulness is well documented since it is the world’s largest essential oil product.
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is a naturally strong scented edible yellowish liquid that’s made from the ripe seeds of the flax plant. These seeds are dried and then the oil is extracted using cold pressing.
Unlike Turpentine which is highly poisonous Linseed Oil is naturally health and actually contains high levels of healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids which are good for the heart if eaten naturally. Also, unlike Turpentine Linseed Oil can be very dangerous because it has been known to spontaneously burn rags and clothing when mixed with certain resins, oils, and solvents, so one should be careful when working with this liquid. One should also remember to keep this liquid in a closed container when not in use due to the strong fumes which can linger in the home. Linseed Oil has many purposes and is extremely useful in a home setting. One area where Linseed Oil is most use is in the preservation and cleaning of wood. It is an extremely good wood finish since it is easily able to absorb into all of the pores in wood creating a natural seal without damaging the piece. Linseed Oil makes wood look shiny and streak free while still showing the natural beauty of grain and protects from future scratches and dents. Besides enhancing wood products Linseed oil can also be used a binding agent on some linoleum floors, mixed with chalk powder to make useful home putty, or used by artists in oil painting.
Source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/turpentine-vs-linseed-oil#ixzz0ramnKoZS
