From oil paints to fingernail polish, mineral spirits and acetone are among some of the most commonly used solvents. Ideal for a large variety of uses, both mineral spirits and acetone offer plenty of benefits, however, there are key distinguishable differences between the two.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between mineral spirits vs acetone, their uses, and introduce you to some smart, eco-friendly alternatives.
What are Mineral Spirits?
Mineral spirits, also known as white spirits, are powerful solvents made from petroleum. They excel at thinning paints and varnishes, and they also effectively clean tools and equipment. Spirits are also fantastic in degreasing surfaces. The secret to their success lies in their unique composition of hydrocarbon compounds, which makes them versatile for dissolving a range of substances.
Manufacturing and production processes seek out mineral spirits because of their versatility in dissolving this variety of substances as they do not leave any residue. By putting proper safety protocols in place, mineral spirits have become an effective and economical solution for improving homes, businesses, and industrial setups.
Mineral spirits can also be used as a fuel additive for cars, or as a base solvent for dry cleaning fluids. They can even enhance the flow and reduce the cracking of oil-based paints. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety by following proper protocols and donning appropriate protective gear when handling these chemical products to stay safe from hazardous fumes.
Furthermore, since mineral spirits are made from petroleum they are a nonrenewable resource. Not to mention, the methods used to extract the petroleum used to make mineral spirits can cause damaging effects to both our earth and the ozone layer.
While mineral spirits have proven themselves to be an indispensable asset for tackling a range of jobs at home or in the workshop, choosing to use a biobased solvent, like VertecBio™ ELpine, eliminates the hazards associated with petrochemicals. VertecBio™ carries an extensive list of quality products that are safe, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and most importantly highly effective.
