A pure various to conventional petroleum-based thinners, a degreaser derived from citrus fruit peels presents a much less poisonous technique for thinning tung oil. It is also used for cleansing brushes and tools after making use of tung oil finishes. Main retailers, together with dwelling enchancment shops, generally inventory these citrus-based merchandise.
Using such a solvent presents a number of benefits. Its pure origin reduces the emission of unstable natural compounds (VOCs), contributing to a more healthy work surroundings. Traditionally, typical solvents posed vital well being and environmental dangers. The introduction of citrus-based choices marks a shift towards extra sustainable and safer practices in woodworking and ending.
The next sections will delve into the particular functions, security issues, and buying choices associated to utilizing this kind of solvent with tung oil, notably when sourcing it from a big dwelling enchancment chain.
1. Pure Composition
The “Pure Composition” of a citrus-based solvent, particularly when contemplating its buy from a retailer like House Depot to be used with tung oil, defines its traits and impacts its efficiency, security profile, and environmental footprint.
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Supply Materials: Citrus Peels
The solvent is derived from the peels of citrus fruits, primarily oranges. The extraction course of recovers d-limonene, a cyclic monoterpene. This differentiates it from petroleum-based options. The precise citrus species used and the purity of the d-limonene have an effect on the solvent’s odor, solvency energy, and potential for allergic reactions.
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Biodegradability Elements
Pure composition inherently implies the next diploma of biodegradability in comparison with artificial solvents. Microorganisms can break down d-limonene into much less dangerous substances. Nevertheless, the speed and extent of biodegradation depend upon environmental circumstances, equivalent to temperature, oxygen availability, and the presence of different pollution that may inhibit microbial exercise. Correct disposal strategies stay essential.
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Absence of Harsh Chemical compounds
Not like many conventional solvents, citrus-based choices usually lack components equivalent to benzene, toluene, or xylene. These chemical substances, generally present in petroleum-derived solvents, pose vital well being dangers by inhalation or pores and skin contact. The absence of those harsh chemical substances contributes to a safer working surroundings, notably in enclosed areas.
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Affect on Tung Oil End
The pure composition can affect the ultimate look and sturdiness of a tung oil end. D-limonene’s solvency energy impacts the penetration and leveling of tung oil. It’s essential to make sure compatibility to forestall points like uneven drying, tackiness, or untimely degradation of the end. Testing on a small, inconspicuous space is beneficial earlier than making use of to a whole challenge.
The pure composition of the citrus solvent, obtainable at places like House Depot, immediately impacts its suitability for numerous functions with tung oil. Concerns lengthen past mere availability to embody its environmental profile, well being implications, and results on the completed product, influencing knowledgeable buying choices.
2. VOC Content material
Unstable Natural Compound (VOC) content material represents a crucial issue when evaluating the suitability of a citrus solvent, equivalent to these obtainable at House Depot, to be used with tung oil. Regulatory compliance, environmental influence, and person well being are all immediately affected by the amount and kind of VOCs current within the solvent.
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Definition and Regulatory Limits
VOCs are natural chemical substances that evaporate at room temperature. Governmental our bodies, such because the EPA in the USA, set up limits on VOC content material in numerous merchandise, together with solvents, to mitigate air air pollution and defend public well being. These laws fluctuate by area and utility, necessitating cautious evaluation of product labels and security information sheets (SDS) prior to buy and use of any citrus solvent for tung oil ending.
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VOC Content material in Citrus Solvents
Whereas citrus solvents are sometimes marketed as “pure” or “low-VOC,” it’s essential to acknowledge that they nonetheless include VOCs, primarily d-limonene. The focus of d-limonene, together with every other components, determines the general VOC content material. Merchandise labeled “zero-VOC” are unlikely to be real citrus solvents and will include various chemical substances with their very own set of environmental and well being issues. Understanding the particular VOC composition is crucial for making knowledgeable choices.
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Affect on Indoor Air High quality
Using citrus solvents indoors, even these with decrease VOC content material, can quickly elevate VOC ranges within the air. This could result in hostile well being results, equivalent to complications, dizziness, and respiratory irritation, notably for people with pre-existing sensitivities. Correct air flow is crucial when making use of tung oil and cleansing tools with a citrus solvent to reduce publicity and keep acceptable indoor air high quality. The speed of evaporation and dispersion performs a major function within the total influence.
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Environmental Concerns
VOC emissions contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, a significant element of smog. Whereas citrus solvents could have a decrease total environmental influence in comparison with conventional petroleum-based solvents, their VOC emissions nonetheless warrant consideration. Selecting merchandise with the bottom attainable VOC content material, using environment friendly utility methods to reduce waste, and correct disposal of used solvents all contribute to decreasing the environmental footprint related to tung oil ending.
The VOC content material of any solvent chosen to be used with tung oil, particularly these available at retailers like House Depot, necessitates cautious scrutiny. Balancing the need for a pure product with the understanding of its inherent chemical properties and potential environmental and well being implications stays paramount in reaching a sustainable and accountable ending course of.
3. Thinning Tung Oil
The apply of thinning tung oil is integral to reaching a fascinating end, influencing penetration, drying time, and total aesthetic. Using a citrus solvent sourced from a retailer like House Depot represents a typical technique for reaching this, presenting particular issues regarding utility and outcomes.
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Penetration Enhancement
Tung oil, in its pure kind, is viscous and may wrestle to successfully penetrate dense wooden species. Thinning with a citrus solvent reduces viscosity, facilitating deeper penetration into the wooden fibers. This enhanced penetration promotes a extra sturdy and protecting end, resisting moisture and put on. The diploma of thinning immediately impacts the depth of penetration and the next protecting qualities of the end. Inadequate thinning can lead to a surface-level movie that’s liable to cracking and peeling.
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Drying Time Modulation
Unthinned tung oil dries slowly, typically requiring a number of days and even weeks between coats. Thinning with a citrus solvent accelerates the drying course of by rising the floor space of the oil uncovered to air and selling quicker solvent evaporation. This permits for faster build-up of the end, decreasing total challenge time. The precise drying time can also be influenced by environmental elements like temperature and humidity.
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End Look and Leveling
Thinning tung oil promotes a smoother and extra even end. The lowered viscosity permits the oil to self-level extra successfully, minimizing brush strokes and imperfections. This leads to a extra professional-looking end, notably on giant or intricate surfaces. The selection of utility technique (brush, rag, spray) additionally influences the ultimate look and will necessitate changes within the thinning ratio.
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Dilution Ratios and Software Strategies
The optimum thinning ratio of citrus solvent to tung oil depends upon the wooden species, utility technique, and desired end traits. A standard place to begin is a 1:1 ratio for the primary coat, regularly decreasing the quantity of solvent in subsequent coats. A number of skinny coats are usually most well-liked over a single thick coat to make sure correct penetration and drying. Cautious consideration to utility method, equivalent to wiping off extra oil after every coat, is essential for reaching a constant and sturdy end.
The efficient thinning of tung oil with a citrus solvent readily obtained from retailers equivalent to House Depot necessitates a complete understanding of the interaction between dilution ratios, utility methods, and desired end traits. Cautious consideration of those elements ensures optimum penetration, drying time, and total aesthetic enchantment of the completed product.
4. Brush Cleansing
Efficient brush cleansing is an important adjunct to any tung oil ending challenge, notably when using a citrus solvent sourced from retailers equivalent to House Depot. Tung oil, on account of its inherent viscosity and drying properties, poses a problem to take away from brushes. Improper cleansing results in hardened bristles, diminished brush efficiency, and finally, brush harm. Citrus solvents, owing to their d-limonene content material, act as a dissolving agent for tung oil, facilitating its elimination from brush bristles. This course of extends the lifespan of the brushes, preserving their high quality for subsequent functions. As an example, permitting tung oil to harden in a brush renders it unusable, necessitating alternative, whereas immediate cleansing with a citrus solvent restores the comb to its authentic situation.
The sensible utility of this data includes a number of steps. First, extra tung oil is faraway from the comb by wiping it completely on a clear fabric or paper towel. Subsequently, the comb is submerged in a container of citrus solvent and agitated to loosen the remaining oil. The solvent is labored into the bristles, making certain full saturation. The comb is then eliminated and the solvent is squeezed out, adopted by rinsing with heat water and delicate cleaning soap. This course of could also be repeated as needed till all traces of tung oil are eliminated. Correct air flow throughout the cleansing course of is crucial to mitigate inhalation of solvent vapors.
In conclusion, integrating brush cleansing into the tung oil ending course of, utilizing a citrus solvent, is just not merely an non-compulsory step however a crucial element of sustaining brush high quality and making certain environment friendly utility in future initiatives. Understanding the solvent’s dissolving properties and implementing an intensive cleansing protocol minimizes brush put on, reduces materials waste, and contributes to the general longevity of portray instruments. Challenges could embody the price of the solvent and the necessity for correct disposal of used solvent, however the advantages of prolonged brush life and improved utility effectivity outweigh these considerations.
5. Security Precautions
The applying of security measures constitutes an indispensable element when working with citrus solvent procured to be used with tung oil, notably solvents sourced from giant retailers like House Depot. These precautions handle potential hazards related to the chemical properties of the solvent, its interplay with the person, and its influence on the encircling surroundings.
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Air flow Adequacy
Citrus solvents emit unstable natural compounds (VOCs) that, upon inhalation, can induce respiratory irritation, complications, or dizziness. Satisfactory air flow is crucial to dilute airborne concentrations of those VOCs, sustaining air high quality inside acceptable parameters. This necessitates working in well-ventilated areas or using mechanical air flow methods, particularly in enclosed areas. Examples embody opening home windows and doorways or using exhaust followers to facilitate air alternate. Failure to make sure enough air flow elevates the danger of hostile well being results and compromises the protection of the work surroundings.
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Private Protecting Gear (PPE)
Direct pores and skin contact with citrus solvents can result in dermatitis or allergic reactions in vulnerable people. Moreover, eye contact poses a threat of irritation or corneal harm. Private protecting tools, together with chemical-resistant gloves and security glasses, gives a bodily barrier in opposition to these potential hazards. Gloves product of nitrile or neoprene provide appropriate safety, whereas security glasses or goggles protect the eyes from splashes or vapors. Constant and proper use of PPE minimizes the chance of pores and skin and eye irritation, safeguarding the person’s well being.
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Flammability Consciousness
Citrus solvents are flammable substances, able to igniting underneath particular circumstances. Sustaining a protected distance from open flames, warmth sources, and potential ignition sources is essential to forestall unintended fires or explosions. This consists of storing the solvent in tightly sealed containers, away from direct daylight and warmth, and avoiding smoking or utilizing electrical tools that might generate sparks within the neighborhood. Consciousness of the solvent’s flammability traits and adherence to fireplace security protocols considerably reduces the danger of fire-related incidents.
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Correct Disposal Strategies
The indiscriminate disposal of citrus solvents poses environmental dangers, probably contaminating soil and water assets. Adhering to correct disposal strategies is crucial for minimizing environmental influence. This includes accumulating used solvent in designated containers, labeling them clearly, and disposing of them in accordance with native laws and pointers. Many municipalities provide hazardous waste assortment applications for the protected and accountable disposal of such supplies. Keep away from pouring the solvent down drains or discarding it with common trash. Accountable disposal practices defend the surroundings and guarantee compliance with environmental laws.
These multifaceted security precautions are integral to the protected and accountable dealing with of citrus solvent obtained for tung oil functions. Their conscientious implementation mitigates potential well being dangers, minimizes the chance of accidents, and safeguards the surroundings, selling a safer and extra sustainable ending course of.
6. House Depot Availability
The prevalence of “citrus solvent for tung oil” inside House Depot’s stock considerably impacts accessibility for each skilled woodworkers and hobbyists. The retailer’s in depth community of bodily places and on-line presence ensures that the product is quickly obtainable throughout a large geographical space. This widespread availability is a direct consequence of House Depot’s established distribution channels and its strategic partnerships with solvent producers. The supply reduces lead instances and simplifies the procurement course of, making it a sensible alternative for these endeavor tung oil ending initiatives. With out this prepared entry, sourcing comparable solvents may show extra time-consuming and probably contain increased prices for delivery or specialised suppliers.
The convenience of buy at House Depot additionally influences product consciousness and adoption charges. The location of “citrus solvent for tung oil” on cabinets alongside associated merchandise, equivalent to tung oil itself, brushes, and sandpaper, facilitates spontaneous purchases and cross-selling alternatives. This publicity will increase the chance that clients will think about using citrus-based solvents as an alternative choice to conventional petroleum-based choices. Actual-world examples embody clients initially searching for tung oil who then uncover the citrus solvent as a beneficial or complementary product, thereby rising its utilization. This placement and affiliation immediately impacts market tendencies and the acceptance of environmentally friendlier choices.
House Depot’s function as a significant retailer additionally contributes to the standardization and pricing of “citrus solvent for tung oil.” The aggressive panorama amongst solvent suppliers vying for shelf house throughout the retailer influences pricing methods, probably benefiting customers by aggressive pricing. Moreover, the retailer’s high quality management measures and product labeling necessities guarantee a sure degree of consistency and transparency within the product choices. Nevertheless, challenges persist in making certain that every one obtainable choices meet particular environmental certifications or detailed VOC content material disclosures, requiring customers to conduct their very own due diligence. In abstract, the in depth availability by House Depot considerably streamlines the method of buying “citrus solvent for tung oil,” immediately affecting market penetration, pricing, and product recognition.
7. Price Comparability
An important side of choosing a citrus solvent for tung oil functions, particularly when procuring it from a retailer like House Depot, includes an intensive evaluation of related prices. This analysis extends past the preliminary buy worth to embody elements that affect the general financial influence of the selection.
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Preliminary Buy Worth Variance
Vital worth variations exist between totally different manufacturers and formulations of citrus solvent supplied at House Depot. Elements equivalent to focus, purity, and container measurement contribute to this variance. A better upfront price could point out a extra concentrated product, requiring much less solvent per utility and probably offsetting the preliminary worth drawback. Conversely, lower-priced choices would possibly necessitate a better quantity to attain the specified thinning ratio, rising the general price of the challenge. Cautious examination of the product label and specs is critical to find out the true cost-effectiveness.
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Solvent Consumption Charge
The effectivity of a citrus solvent in thinning tung oil immediately impacts the consumption price and, consequently, the long-term price. Solvents with superior solvency energy require smaller volumes to attain the specified viscosity, resulting in lowered total consumption. Conversely, much less efficient solvents necessitate bigger portions, accelerating depletion and rising the frequency of repurchases. The consumption price is influenced by the wooden species, the specified end traits, and the applicator’s method. Empirical testing or reference to person critiques can present insights into the solvent’s effectivity and long-term price implications.
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Brush Cleansing Effectivity and Waste
The efficacy of a citrus solvent in cleansing brushes coated with tung oil influences the quantity of solvent required for cleansing and the potential for materials waste. A solvent that rapidly and successfully removes tung oil minimizes the necessity for repeated cleansing cycles and reduces solvent consumption. Inefficient solvents necessitate extended soaking and scrubbing, resulting in elevated waste and better prices. Moreover, the benefit of cleansing impacts the lifespan of the brushes; a solvent that preserves the bristles’ integrity reduces the necessity for frequent brush replacements, contributing to long-term price financial savings.
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Disposal Prices and Environmental Charges
The disposal of used citrus solvent incurs prices, notably when adhering to environmentally accountable practices. Relying on native laws, correct disposal could require specialised waste administration providers or adherence to particular disposal pointers. Some municipalities impose charges for the gathering and processing of hazardous waste, together with used solvents. Failing to adjust to these laws can lead to fines and penalties, additional escalating the general price. The disposal prices and environmental charges related to citrus solvent needs to be factored into the entire price evaluation.
In abstract, conducting an intensive price comparability when choosing a citrus solvent for tung oil functions from House Depot necessitates evaluating upfront costs alongside elements equivalent to solvent consumption, cleansing effectivity, and disposal prices. This complete method ensures a extra knowledgeable and economically sound determination, optimizing the worth derived from the chosen solvent.
8. Environmental Affect
The utilization of citrus solvent for tung oil ending, notably when sourced from a big retailer equivalent to House Depot, carries distinct environmental penalties. The first benefit lies in its origin from citrus fruit peels, a byproduct of the juice business, probably diverting waste from landfills. Nevertheless, this doesn’t robotically equate to negligible environmental influence. The extraction course of itself requires power and assets, contributing to a carbon footprint. Furthermore, the solvent’s composition, primarily d-limonene, whereas derived from a pure supply, continues to be a unstable natural compound (VOC). VOCs contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, a significant element of smog, and may have detrimental results on air high quality and human well being. The size of House Depot’s distribution community amplifies each the potential advantages and dangers; widespread adoption may considerably cut back reliance on petroleum-based solvents, however large-scale use may additionally result in substantial VOC emissions if not managed responsibly.
Analyzing the lifecycle of citrus solvent, from manufacturing to disposal, reveals extra issues. The transportation of the solvent from manufacturing services to House Depot shops and subsequently to customers generates greenhouse gasoline emissions. Moreover, improper disposal of used solvent can contaminate soil and water assets. House Depot’s function in selling accountable disposal practices, equivalent to providing recycling applications or offering clear steerage on correct disposal strategies, turns into essential in mitigating these adverse impacts. The supply of Materials Security Information Sheets (MSDS) and product labeling detailing VOC content material and protected dealing with procedures contributes to knowledgeable client selections, probably influencing the collection of lower-VOC options or the adoption of safer utility methods. Actual-world examples embody situations the place communities expertise localized air high quality degradation on account of widespread solvent use, highlighting the sensible significance of understanding and addressing these environmental impacts.
In the end, the environmental influence of “citrus solvent for tung oil dwelling depot” is a posh equation involving supply materials, manufacturing processes, distribution networks, client conduct, and disposal practices. Whereas providing a probably extra sustainable various to conventional solvents, its total environmental footprint depends upon accountable administration all through its lifecycle. Challenges stay in quantifying the online environmental profit in comparison with different solvent choices and in making certain widespread adoption of finest practices for decreasing VOC emissions and selling accountable disposal. The elevated consciousness of environmental implications can result in knowledgeable buying choices and eco-conscious conduct amongst House Depot’s clients.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
The next addresses widespread inquiries concerning the usage of citrus solvent with tung oil, particularly within the context of merchandise obtainable at House Depot.
Query 1: What are the first benefits of using citrus solvent over conventional petroleum-based solvents for thinning tung oil?
Citrus solvent presents a decrease unstable natural compound (VOC) content material in comparison with many petroleum-based options, probably decreasing air air pollution and inhalation hazards. It’s derived from citrus fruit peels, a renewable useful resource, which can cut back dependence on fossil fuels.
Query 2: Is citrus solvent solely non-toxic?
Whereas typically marketed as “pure,” citrus solvent is just not solely non-toxic. D-limonene, its major element, could cause pores and skin and respiratory irritation in some people. Correct air flow and private protecting tools are nonetheless beneficial.
Query 3: How ought to citrus solvent be correctly disposed of after use?
Citrus solvent shouldn’t be poured down drains or disposed of with common trash. Contact native waste administration authorities or House Depot for data on hazardous waste disposal applications in a given space.
Query 4: Does the model of citrus solvent bought at House Depot considerably influence the ultimate tung oil end?
The model can affect the solvent’s purity, solvency energy, and drying time. Testing a small, inconspicuous space earlier than making use of to all the challenge is advisable to make sure compatibility and desired outcomes.
Query 5: What dilution ratio of citrus solvent to tung oil is mostly beneficial?
A 1:1 ratio for the preliminary coat is a typical place to begin, although the optimum ratio depends upon the wooden species, utility technique, and desired end. Seek advice from the tung oil and solvent product labels for particular suggestions.
Query 6: Can citrus solvent be used to scrub brushes after making use of different varieties of finishes apart from tung oil?
Citrus solvent is primarily efficient for cleansing oil-based finishes, together with tung oil. Its efficacy with different end sorts, equivalent to water-based or lacquer-based merchandise, could also be restricted.
In abstract, whereas citrus solvent presents advantages in comparison with conventional solvents, it’s important to grasp its properties, potential hazards, and correct utilization to attain the specified end and reduce environmental influence.
The following part delves into potential challenges and troubleshooting suggestions associated to utilizing citrus solvent in particular tung oil ending initiatives.
Ideas for Utilizing Citrus Solvent with Tung Oil (House Depot)
The following tips handle crucial issues for reaching optimum outcomes when using citrus solvent, notably merchandise sourced from House Depot, in tung oil ending functions. Adherence to those suggestions enhances each the standard and longevity of the end, whereas mitigating potential challenges.
Tip 1: Prioritize Air flow. Guarantee enough air flow throughout each utility and drying phases. Citrus solvents launch VOCs; subsequently, workspaces ought to keep fixed air alternate to reduce inhalation publicity.
Tip 2: Conduct Compatibility Testing. Earlier than making use of to all the challenge, check the citrus solvent and tung oil combination on a small, inconspicuous space. This confirms compatibility with the particular wooden species and verifies the specified end traits.
Tip 3: Gradual Dilution. Start with the next focus of citrus solvent for preliminary coats to advertise deep penetration. Step by step cut back the solvent ratio in subsequent coats to construct a sturdy end.
Tip 4: Thorough Mixing. Make sure the citrus solvent and tung oil are completely blended earlier than utility. Insufficient mixing can lead to uneven drying and inconsistent end high quality.
Tip 5: Skinny Coats. Apply a number of skinny coats relatively than a single thick coat. Skinny coats facilitate even drying, cut back the danger of runs or drips, and improve total end sturdiness.
Tip 6: Correct Drying Time. Enable ample drying time between coats, adhering to the producer’s suggestions. Inadequate drying can result in a cheesy or uneven end.
Tip 7: Accountable Disposal. Eliminate used citrus solvent and contaminated supplies based on native laws. Contact municipal waste administration or House Depot for steerage on hazardous waste disposal.
Tip 8: Make the most of Applicable PPE. Put on applicable private protecting tools, together with nitrile gloves and eye safety, to reduce pores and skin contact and forestall eye irritation.
The constant utility of the following pointers will enhance the effectivity and effectiveness of tung oil ending initiatives using citrus solvent, whereas additionally selling security and accountable environmental practices.
The article concludes with a abstract of the important thing factors and suggestions for efficiently incorporating “citrus solvent for tung oil dwelling depot” into woodworking endeavors.
Conclusion
The previous exploration of citrus solvent supposed to be used with tung oil, particularly when sourced from House Depot, reveals a multifaceted topic. The evaluation encompassed composition, VOC content material, thinning practices, security issues, availability, price, and environmental ramifications. Correct utilization, accountable disposal, and the balancing of environmental considerations with sensible utility had been persistently underscored. The suitability relies upon not solely on availability, however on knowledgeable decision-making.
In the end, the knowledgeable utility of citrus solvent, coupled with stringent adherence to security protocols and accountable disposal practices, will dictate its total effectiveness and reduce potential hostile results. Future developments in solvent know-how and evolving regulatory requirements could additional refine the optimum method to tung oil ending.
