Solvents for paint: selection criteria

Now on the market you can find any material that the buyer can like both functionally and in terms of stylistic characteristics and cost. One example of such materials is paint - many professionals and home craftsmen turn to it during repairs. However, not all self-taught masters know how to choose a solvent for paint, because it is able to reflect the result of the repair carried out.

A solvent is an organic liquid that is used to process paints and varnishes - due to solvents, they acquire the desired paint consistency.

It should be noted that the scope of application of solvents is quite wide, since they are used not only to dilute paints and varnishes and give them the required consistency, but are also used to degrease and remove dirt from tools, surfaces and sometimes even clothing.

However, if we talk about the use of solvents in the construction industry, then there are a large number of materials that, depending on their qualities, are combined with different types of paint.

These products are used quite often in repair work, as they have a number of characteristics that distinguish solvents from other types of organic substances. First of all, this includes the possibility of using materials at low temperatures, as well as their use is allowed in an environment with a high moisture content.

Many types of solvents can be found on the modern construction market. The most popular of them are presented below, but it is worth noting that such a parameter as solvent consumption per 1 kg of paint will not be mentioned here, since it is individual for each material and is determined by the ratio of various auxiliary materials in it.

• Petrol is one of the most common materials, as it is quite easy to use. The material is a transparent volatile liquid with a characteristic pungent odor. Most often it is used to dilute oil paints, varnishes, various enamels, for example, alkyd and sometimes putties. The great advantage of this substance is that it can be used to remove grease from surfaces on which it is subsequently planned to apply paint or varnish. On the other hand, gasoline also has disadvantages, for example, it is very flammable because it is created from refined oil.

• White Spirit - is a universal thinner. It is used for varnishes and most paints: oil, acrylic and enamel. Moreover, it is suitable for thinning the material and bringing the consistency of primer, filler and bituminous materials back to normal. Like gasoline, it can be used to degrease surfaces.
• Turpentine is the oldest solvent and was used before the advent of white spirit. In terms of its chemical composition, it is a complex substance that consists of hydrocarbons, in particular, of terpenes. Due to its characteristics, it is used in the production of most varnishes, it also often dissolves oil, alkyd paints and enamels.

• Butanol belongs to the category of alcoholic solvents that are more often used in industry than in private construction.It has a simple formula and is a colorless liquid with a pungent persistent odor. An important distinguishing feature of such a composition is that it mixes quite easily with the main coloring material and does not enter into any chemical reactions with it. Thanks to this, a homogeneous substance is obtained, which is characterized by a low fire hazard.
• Another type of solvent is acetone, which is known to absolutely everyone. During construction work, it is used not only to dissolve resins, oils and paints, but sometimes also cellulose and polystyrene. Interestingly, the consumption of this material is quite optimal, and it will last for several times. With the help of acetone, you can not only dilute paint and degrease the surface, but also synthesize various organic materials.

Different types of solvents interact with different types of paints - this factor is the most important when choosing materials, otherwise it can negatively affect the result of the repair.

For latex paint used for lining concrete, wood and plastic surfaces, solvents such as R-4, R 646-648... Organic substances are hidden under these abbreviations. They must be used with great care, especially if there is a need to remove stains from the parquet, otherwise there may be solvent-burned spots on it.

Diluted latex paint combined with a solvent will create a long-lasting coating that is water-repellent.

When using oil and alkyd paints, you should pay attention to the following thinning substances: butanol, kerosene, turpentine, white spirit and gasoline. Since in the production of these types of dyes, not natural linseed oil is used, but artificial, many craftsmen are afraid that solvents can enter into chemical reactions with them, but this can be easily avoided if proportions and safety precautions are observed.

The varnish, which is used as a base for alkyd paint, determines the use of solvents with indices: PF 115, KO or P-6. In order to achieve the desired effect and a coating that is resistant to mechanical damage, it is necessary to observe the proportion - when using a mixture of white spirit and turpentine - 1: 1, otherwise the solvent can destroy the previous primers.

Nitro paints are usually used for painting metal, because the main feature of this type of paints is the strength and durability of the coating, which can often be glossy. It is also important that such a material has a strong pungent odor that does not disappear for a long time - it can last up to two days.

The best solvents for this type of paint are compositions numbered 645-650 - it is they who will effectively act not only as solvents, but also as a degreasing agent.

For epoxy paints, it is worth choosing compositions such as R-14, R-40 and R-83. They can even remove dried stains on the surface, because epoxy materials dry very quickly and are highly resistant to mechanical damage and abrasion. However, on the other hand, this can be a clear advantage over similar paints.

Polyurethane materials are widely used not only in construction, but also in many other areas, since this paint interacts well with any type of surface and fits well on it. In addition, it is wear-resistant and does not emit any toxic substances during work. This is its main advantage, since it will interact well with solvents without creating chemical reactions.To dilute this type of paint, refer to solvents numbered R-189, R-1176, RL-176 and RL-277.

But water is not able to wash off an already dried stain, so you need to know what solvents to use for this type of material. Acetone is best suited for this purpose, because it is gentle enough and can gently remove paint residues without damaging the surface of the coating.

It should be noted also powder paints, which have become widespread in the building materials market in recent years. This happened because it has a large color palette, low cost and is an environmentally friendly material that does not create detrimental conditions for working craftsmen.

As solvents, special washes are used, which can be found in the building goods store under the numbers P-7 and P-11... However, they contain harsh chemicals, so be very careful when handling these solvents. In addition to them, turpentine, gasoline and white spirit can also be used.

Hammer paint can be thinned with compounds R-645, R-647 and P-650, as well as a universal white spirit. Dry stains can be difficult to cope with as hammer enamel is quite tough and adheres quickly to the surface. However, if you use the above materials, you can avoid negative consequences after the repair.

Most materials contain harsh chemicals that can harm human health, and some are even explosive. Based on this, it is impermissible to ignore safety rules.

First of all, it is necessary to ensure the correct storage conditions for materials: they must be stored in well-ventilated or ventilated areas, otherwise the toxic smell of solvents can affect human well-being. Poisoning in vapors may occur, the symptoms of which are dizziness, heart palpitations, lacrimation, and general weakness.

This is especially true for those who constantly work with solvents and dyes - it is better to use the most gentle materials that cannot lead to lesions and diseases of internal organs.

In addition, we must not forget about personal protection, that is, you need to work in respirators, glasses and heavy gloves, otherwise chemical burns may appear on the body.

In the event that a chemical suddenly gets on the mucous membranes, it is necessary to rinse them as soon as possible with running water, and then seek the help of doctors.

If a person wishes to remove a stain from clothing with a solvent, first use the substance on a separate piece to test the interaction between the fabric and the solvent. Some of them can not only remove dirt, but also burn clothes.

By following these rules, you can use solvents efficiently and as safely as possible.

For more information on solvents and their applications, see below.