Linseed oil (boiled)
Linseed oil (boiled)
Linseed oil for wood is available in two variants: boiled and raw linseed oil. Raw linseed oil is the pure version, which is pressed from flax seeds. It dries very slow. Boiled linseed oil is not obtained by simply boiling the oil, but is a mixture of linseed oil, standing oil (linseed oil heated without oxygen), and further processed by oxidation or adding metallic thinners(1).
Linseed oil can be applied as a transparent protective sealant for wood, in or outdoors. It is water resistant until a certain extend. It is also widely used as a painting medium in different (natural) paints, such as lime, clay and flour paint.
The life cycle |
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High energy Although made from a renewable material, flax seeds, linseed oil has a high embodied energy, comparable to that of oil-based finishes.
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High footprint Although it is made from a renewable material, flax seeds, boiled linseed oil requires a lot of non renewable energy to be produced(1).
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Non toxic To make boiled linseed oil, metal salts are added. They cause the oil to dry faster. While these render boiled linseed oil inedible, you'd have to consume a decent amount before it would be toxic(1). |
Costly Boiled linseed oil, or boiled linseed oil paint is more expensive then water based paints or other natural paints per m2 of painted surface.
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Time consuming Linseed oil takes time to dry. Boiled linseed oil dries much faster, but still takes up to 24 hours.
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Non toxic No VOC or solvents. Once the oil is dry, the metals that could be present are trapped in the film, making it safe for use on furniture. |
Short lifespan Linseed oil can support the growth of mildew. On surfaces where abrasion will be frequently encountered, linseed oil may not harden sufficiently. Requires frequent repair. Lack of any UV blockers.
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Easy reuse Boiled linseed oil (paint) is easy to sand and re-paint. |
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Links
How to
The ins and outs of linseed oil by Woodworking Detail
Eco info
Great post about finishes on GreenSpec with a section on linseed oil
Check out the most extensive environmental comparison of wood finishes, which is Finnish.
MSDS (material safety datasheet) of linseed oil from a EU producer
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Other Finishing
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Examples on Harvestmap.org