Paint thinner

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A paint thinner is a solvent used to thin oil-based paints. Solvents labeled "paint thinner" are usually mineral spirits having a flash point at about 40 °C (104 °F),^[1] the same as some popular brands of charcoal starter.^[2]

Common solvents historically used as paint thinners include:^[3]

• Mineral spirits (North America) / White spirit
  (United Kingdom and Ireland)
• Acetone
• Turpentine
• Naphtha
• Toluene
• Lacquer thinner
• Methyl ethyl ketone
  (MEK)
• Dimethylformamide (DMF)
• Glycol ethers, such as 2-Butoxyethanol

Less common solvents used as paint thinner include:^{[4][failed verification]}

• Ethylbenzene
• Xylene
• n-Butyl acetate
• Butanol

Health concerns

Exposure to vapors created by paint containing thinner or its cleanup may be hazardous. The

), day after day through their work life without long-term ill effects.

In underdeveloped countries, workers commonly experience much higher exposure to these chemicals with consequent damage to their health.^{[original research?]}

Addiction

Paint thinners are often used as an inhalant, due to its accessibility and legality as a drug. Many teenagers become addicted to thinner and due to lack of knowledge, parents and caregivers do not notice it or give it much attention.^[5]

See also

• Environmental impact of paint
• Substance-induced psychosis

References