Product Application
Langridge Low Toxic Solvent may be added to oil colours, drying oils and oil mediums in small quantities, used to clean dried paint films and used to clean brushes and painting equipment.
It can be used as a dilutent when used in small quantities with oil colours.
Extreme care should be taken, however, in diluting purely with Low Toxic Solvent as its over-use can easily underbind paint and lead to a dull, dry lifeless film with potential for dusting or flaking off.
Artists wishing to create very fluid working qualities should refer to painting mediums constructed for that purpose.
Low Toxic Solvent can be added to artists’ drying oils to add extra fluidity
Low Toxic Solvent has a low solvent action (KB value) making it a highly useful for gentle removal of surface dirt from paint films (Langridge does not recommend thorough cleaning, including varnish removal, of artworks except by a trained conservator.).
Because of its construction, Langridge Low Toxic Solvent cannot be used for the home manufacture of artists’ varnishes (natural or synthetic). Damar resin cannot be dissolved in Langridge Low Toxic Solvent or any petroleum distillate.
For cleaning brushes Langridge recommends the use of brush cleaning units or containers which have an airtight lid.
Reducing exposure to solvent fumes is to advised at all times as well as preventing evaporation of solvent in the container.
Additional Product Information
A Low Toxic Alternative
Because Langridge Low Toxic Solvent has a Permissible Exposure Level (PEL) higher than other solvents the artists exposure will not be as harmful in comparison to traditional solvents.
Associated issues with prolonged contact with traditional artists’ solvents such as dermatitis, skin and respiratory organ irritation, headaches, etc. can be dramatically reduced or removed by using Langridge Low Toxic Solvent.
Langridge still recommends the use of good studio ventilation, open windows to increase airflow and preferably a properly installed exhaust system.
Using solvents to matte paint
Artists wishing to have a painting with a matte reflective quality should use a matte medium added to their paints or apply a matt picture varnish once the painting is finished.
The use of solvents to matte paint is not recommended because the matte effect seen is due to the partial destruction of the paint film, leaving an unstable, underbound paint surface liable to crack or dust/flake.
Working Properties
Appearance
Langridge Low Toxic Solvent is a clear and transparent liquid with no characteristic odour.
Clean Up
For further washing apply a small quantity of Marseille or other pure olive oil soap and massage the bristles of the brush to release any remaining Low Toxic Solvent. Wash thoroughly in warm water. Leave to fully dry before using for oil colours.
Evaporation Times
10ml in 55mm wide open cup at 20o centigrade ambient temperature full evaporation after 3 hours.
Any airflow over the surface will evaporate the solvent more rapidly.