Mineral Spirits

Mineral spirits are a widely used aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent valued for their strong solvency, controlled evaporation, and versatility across industrial and commercial applications. Commonly used in paints, varnishes, adhesives, and coatings, mineral spirits effectively dissolve oils, waxes, resins, and other organic compounds, providing excellent thinning and cleaning properties. Their balance of volatility and solvency makes them ideal for surface preparation, finishing, and maintenance operations in both large-scale manufacturing and specialty applications.

Beyond coatings and adhesives, mineral spirits serve as a reliable cleaning and degreasing agent in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and metalworking. They are widely employed for equipment cleaning, parts degreasing, and general maintenance, offering efficiency while maintaining consistent performance. With their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and proven track record, mineral spirits remain an essential solvent for manufacturers and professionals seeking high-performance solutions in coatings, cleaning, and industrial processing.

Synonyms: mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent, white spirits, petroleum spirits

Characteristics:

IUPAC Name: not applicable (complex hydrocarbon mixture)

CAS Number: 8052-41-3 (typical for mineral spirits)

UN Number: 1300 (Turpentine substitute, petroleum distillates, n.o.s.)

Recommended Use / Industries:

• Paint thinners and coatings
• Cleaning and degreasing agents
• Adhesives and sealants industry
• Printing inks and resins
• Industrial maintenance and parts washing