Turpentine substitute

Turpentine substitute is a mineral based replacement for the vegetable based organic solvent turpentine. It is a hydrotreated light distillate of petroleum, which forms a clear transparent liquid at room temperature. It is a complex mixture of highly refined hydrocarbon distillates mainly in the C9-C16 range. The liquid is highly volatile and the vapours are flammable.

As the name suggests it is a widely available and cheaper substitute for turpentine. It is commonly used as an organic solvent in painting and decorating, for thinning oil based paint and cleaning brushes. Also known as turps substitute, mineral turpentine, or just turps, causing confusion with genuine turpentine.

See also

• White spirit