White Spirit
White Spirit is a clear, colorless, petroleum-derived solvent widely used in industrial, commercial, and household applications. It is composed primarily of aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons, offering excellent solvency properties, moderate evaporation rate, and low odor varieties. White Spirit serves as a powerful degreaser, paint thinner, and cleaning agent, facilitating effective removal of oils, greases, and paints.
White Spirit
Primary Uses
Paints and Coatings Industry
- Paint Thinner: Used to thin oil-based paints, varnishes, and enamels for improved application and finish.
- Cleaning Agent: Cleans brushes, rollers, and equipment after painting jobs.
Industrial Cleaning
- Degreasing Agent: Removes grease, oil, and wax residues from metal surfaces and machinery parts.
Household Use
- Spot and Stain Removal: Used to remove grease stains from fabrics and carpets.
- Adhesive and Tar Remover: Effective in dissolving adhesives, tar, and sticky residues.
Secondary Uses
Automotive Industry
- Engine Cleaning: Used for cleaning engine parts and metal surfaces before repair or maintenance.
Chemical Industry
- Solvent Carrier: Acts as a carrier solvent in the formulation of pesticides and cleaning products.
Art and Craft
- Medium: Used as a solvent medium in oil painting techniques.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Petroleum distillates, hydrotreated light
- Common/Trade Name: White Spirit, Mineral Spirits
- CAS Number: 8052-41-3
- HS Code: 2710.19.00
- Synonyms: Stoddard solvent, mineral spirits, petroleum spirits
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Clear, colorless liquid
- Color & Odor: Mild hydrocarbon odor
- Boiling Range: 140-200 °C
- Density: Approx. 0.76–0.80 g/cm³
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
- Flash Point: 38–60 °C (closed cup, varies by grade)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Flammable liquid (Category 3), Aspiration hazard (Category 1)
- Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; avoid prolonged exposure and ingestion
- Exposure Limits: Occupational exposure limits vary by region; generally around 100 ppm (TWA)
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources
- Container Type: Drums, metal cans, or bulk tanks
- Shelf Life: Typically 12-24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of vapors and prolonged skin contact; use proper PPE
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with: Major international regulations for industrial solvents
- Manufactured under: Quality control standards to ensure purity and consistency
- Not suitable for: Food or pharmaceutical applications
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms at high concentrations
- Bioaccumulation: Potential for bioaccumulation; avoid environmental release
Safety & Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection recommended in poorly ventilated areas
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated spaces; avoid ignition sources and static discharge
- Storage Measures: Store away from oxidizers and acids
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable liquid and vapor
- Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚, or water spray (fog)
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases