White Spirit vs. Turps Substitute: Understanding the Chemical Differences

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SUMMARY

White spirit and turps substitute are both hydrocarbon distillate fractions, but they differ in composition and characteristics. White spirit consists of hydrocarbons in the C7 to C12 range, primarily aliphatic with 10-15% aromatic content. In contrast, turps substitute, also known as mineral turps, contains hydrocarbons in the C9 to C16 range and is heavier than white spirit. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate solvent for painting and cleaning applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic knowledge of hydrocarbon chemistry
  • Familiarity with solvent properties and applications
  • Understanding of aliphatic and aromatic compounds
  • Knowledge of paint and coating materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical properties of white spirit and its applications in painting
  • Investigate the composition and uses of turps substitute (mineral turps)
  • Learn about the environmental impact of different solvents in painting
  • Explore safety guidelines for handling and using hydrocarbon solvents
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for chemists, paint formulators, and DIY enthusiasts looking to understand the differences between solvents used in painting and cleaning applications.

Studiot
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Can anyone explain the (chemical) difference between white spirit and turps substitute please?
 
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They're both hydrocarbon distillate fractions but mineral turps is heavier. White spirit is hydrocarbons in the C7 to C12 range. Mineral turps is C9-C16.
 
Thank you for the reply.

My paint chemistry book gives white spirit as being largely aliphatic with about 10 - 15% aromatic content.

Of course real turpentine is an aromatic mixture.

Unfortunately the book does not mention turps substitute. Would this be the same as what you have called mineral turps?

My reason for asking was that I was in the shop the other day looking at the paint shelves, one with a row of white spirit and one with a row of turps substitute, both priced the same and I wondered what was the point of have two?
 

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