TUNG OIL
TUNG OIL
TUNG OIL
China wood oil = Tungoel = Lumbang oil
CAS Number: 8001-20-5
EC Number: 232-272-3
MDL number: MFCD00217929
Tung oil is also called china wood oil that can be produced by cold pressing the seeds of tung tree.
Tungoel can be used as a biodiesel and a drying oil in the production of paints.
Tung oil is a plant oil that can be polymerized to produce a variety of products which include pressure sensitive adhesives, self-healed epoxy coatings, polyurethane foam, and vinyl ester resins.
Pure Tung oil is a drying oil that’s extracted from the seed of the tung tree, which is native to China and a few other Asian countries.
China wood oil has been used for centuries as a water-resistant finish for boats and other wooden objects, as well as to finish stone.
Pure Tung oil is an excellent alternative to other drying oils, such as walnut, linseed and soy.
Tung Oil belongs to the oil – vegetable family and can be applied as drying oil for the Paints & Coatings and Lubricants industries.
Tung oil or China wood oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree.
Tung oil hardens upon exposure to air, and the resulting coating is transparent and has a deep, almost wet look.
Lumbang oil is used mostly for finishing and protecting wood, after numerous coats, the finish can even look plastic-like.
Related drying oils include linseed, safflower, poppy, and soybean oils.
Tung oil and its use are believed to have originated in ancient China and appear in the writings of Confucius from about 400 BC.
Raw tung oil tends to dry to a fine, wrinkled finish; the English name for this is gas checking; this property was used to make wrinkle finishes, usually by adding excess cobalt drier.
To stop this, the oil is heated to gas-proof it, and most oils used for coating are gas-proofed, also known as “boiled”.
The tung oil tree originates in southern China and was cultivated there for tung oil, but the date of cultivation remains unknown.
During the Song Dynasty, tung oil was used for waterproofing on ships.
The primary constituent is a fatty acid with a chain of 18 linked carbon atoms or methylene units containing three conjugated double bonds.
Tungoel is especially sensitive to autoxidation, which encourages cross linking of neighbouring chains, hence hardening of the base resin.
The word “tung” is etymologically derived from China.
The name Tung oil is often used by paint and varnish manufacturers as a generic name for any wood-finishing product that contains the real tung oil or provides a finish that resembles the finish obtained with tung oil.
Uses of Tung Oil:
Tung Oil is used by Carpenters, woodworkers, crafters, and hobbyist.
Lumbang oil is also used at wood, bamboo, concrete, stone, brick, and even metal surfaces.
Tung oil is a favorite for finishing wood floors, cabinetry, decks, siding, furniture, guitars and other musical instruments, handmade toys, and more.
Tung oil is very popular because of two properties:
First, Lumbang oil is a naturally derived substance.
Second, after Lumbang oil cures (5 to 30 days, weather/temperature related), the result is a very hard and easily repaired finish, so it is used on boat decks and now on floors.
China wood oil is often diluted with hydrocarbon thinner so its viscosity is very low and enables the oil to penetrate the finest grain woods and his thinning vehicle evaporates within 15 to 20 minutes.
When applied in many fine/thinner coats over wood, tung oil slowly cures to a matte/light satin look with slight golden tint.
Tung oil resists water better than any other pure oil finish and does not darken noticeably with age.
Tungoel is claimed to be less susceptible to mould than linseed oil.
Since tung oil has become popular as an environmentally friendly wood finish, some products labelled as “tung oil” are actually blends containing other oils, varnishes, solvents, or chemical driers, and may even contain no tung oil at all.
Products labeled Danish oil may be tung oil or they may be polymerized linseed oil.
The product packaging will usually clearly state if it is pure tung oil.
Heating tung oil to about 500 °F (260 °C) in an oxygen-free environment will substantially increase the viscosity and film-forming quality of the product.
Most polymerized tung oils are sold mixed with mineral spirits to make them easier to work with, Limonene and D-limonene are less toxic alternatives for mineral spirits.
The oil-paper umbrella is the traditional umbrella used in China, Japan, and other countries in the sinosphere, and was brought to Western countries through the Silk Road.
Tung oil is the “oil” mentioned in the oil-paper umbrella, which is used to protect the paper from getting wet, and to make the umbrella waterproof.
What is the difference between pure and dark tung oil?
As the name suggests, the pure tung oil is free of additives and distillates, meaning it doesn’t create a glossy or heavy finish.
Pure tung oil dries to a honey color.
The only difference with dark tung oil is that we’ve added a non-carcinogenic and PCB-free resinous hydrocarbon that gives the oil a darker and richer finish.
Tung Oil Uses:
Being a natural oil, Tung Oil is safe to use in all environments and on all types of wood, including;
-Interior and exterior wood
-Hardwoods and softwoods
-Food surfaces such as kitchen worktops and dining areas
-Kitchen utensils
-(Children’s) Furniture and toys
-Doors and Windows
-Hardwood Floors
-Turned Wood
-Untreated timber and bare wood
-Decking
Tung oil is a plant-based oil used as a wood finish.
China wood oil is clear, quick-drying, and penetrates the grain to enhance and protect the wood.
Tungoel’s one of the oldest and most popular wood finishes in the world and is derived from the seeds of the tung tree in Eastern Asia.
Tung oil has become a staple among fine furniture craftsmen in the United States and beyond.
Lumbang Oil is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and food-safe.
Tung oil is derived from pressing the seeds of the tung tree, which is native to Eastern Asia.
The oil has been cultivated and used in China as a wood finish for at least 2,500 years.
Tung Oil is similarly to linseed oil, it is difficult to find furniture that is made with raw or 100% pure tung oil.
Many craftsmen will use boiled or polymerized tung oil, and it’s also common for manufacturers to mislabel products as tung oil when they’re not.
If you’re interested in a tung oil finish, it’s worth doing a bit of digging to understand exactly what finish is being used and what it’s comprised of.
There are many reasons a craftsman might consider using tung oil to finish wood furniture.
Tung Oil is all natural, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, and it doesn’t yellow as much over time as common finishes like linseed oil, nitrocellulose lacquer, or varnishes like polyurethane.
On the other hand, tung oil is expensive and susceptible to water rings, stains, and scratches.
Where can Tung Oil be used?
Tung Oil is deal for small or medium projects where a matte finish is desired such as woodworking, salad bowls, cutting boards, gun stocks, jewelry cases, patio furniture and decks.
Why Consider Chinese Tung Oil?
There are various reasons people opt for tung oil in their projects.
As stated earlier, Lumbang Oil is versatile.
Lumbang Oil is also durable and flexible, as well as food safe.
You can use Tungoel as a protective waterproof finish that will not darken or go rancid.
Furthermore, Lumbang Oil dries faster than other drying oils.
In that case, Lumbang Oil is easier to apply.
Lumbang Oil is also less time-consuming as you do not have to wait for a lot longer to apply and re-apply the product.
Plus, Lumbang Oil offers a beautiful matte finish, unlike other oils.
Tung oil is also adds depth to the woodgrain.
Tung Oils Properties and Characteristics:
Pure Tung Oil is an all natural finish that is water and alkali resistant offering a protective barrier
A Pure Tung Oil finish will not darken with age as other finishes will.
Lumbang Oil resists marring, penetrates well, remains elastic and unlikely to check.
Tung oil builds quickly, consolidates the wood surface and builds a transparent matte finish.
Pure Tung Oil finish will not mildew or bleed like linseed oil when dry which makes it an excellent candidate for outdoor finishes.
Lumbang Oil should be kept in an airtight container with minimum air space.
Pure Tung Oil contains no thinners or driers and has a light nutty odor.
A Pure Tung Oil finish mixed with Citrus Solvent is a all natural organic finish that is environmentally safe and food safe.
Unlike other surface treatments, tung oil actually bonds with the wood to make it waterproof and lends protection from the elements for years to come.
Applying a simple coat of tung oil once a year is a great way to keep your investment protected against extreme weather.
Should You Use Pure or Dark Oil
Pure tung oil does not contain any additives.
Lumbang Oil also does not create a heavy finish while giving the wooden object a glossy appearance.
Lumbang Oil dries to any honey color object.
If you opt for dark tung oil, you are still using pure tung oil but with non-carcinogenic resinous hydrocarbon.
The added ingredient gives Lumbang Oil a darker appearance.
In other words, if you wish to achieve a darker result, you may opt for dark tung oil, however, if you want a natural wood result, then just opt for pure tung oil.
Many carpenters and hobbyists are adding tung oil to their finish.
Lumbang Oil use as a protective finish in various wood projects.
Tung Oil is applied to bamboo, brick, concrete and even metal surfaces.
Lumbang Oil is also a favorite drying agent to finish wood floors, furniture, guitars, decks and more.
The amount of tung oil you need will depend on your project.
One gallon of Lumbang Oil is enough to cover 400 square feet surface.
You may need up to five coats, however, Lumbang Oil hinges on how porous the wood is.
When you apply Lumbang Oil to the wood surface, make sure that it is clean.
Eliminate grease, dirt, and dust on the surface as it affects the result.
You may choose to sand the surface to eliminate any finish that is present.
You can apply Lumbang Oil to bare surfaces or you may choose to apply it over another coat.
To properly remove dust, make sure to use sandpaper and vacuum it well.
Make sure to use thinner oil to make the application faster.
Lumbang Oil also dries the wood faster.
You must not thin Lumbang Oil when you use it on unfashioned wood floors or concrete floors.
The first layer must have a generous amount.
Allow the oil to be absorbed by the wood before applying the next coat.
There are many reasons why people love tung oil for their projects, and one of the most popular is its flexible, durable, food safe, and protective waterproof finish that doesn’t mold, darken or go rancid.
On a practical note, tung oil also dries faster than other oils, making it easier and less time-consuming to apply.
From an aesthetic standpoint, tung oil also cures to a beautiful matte finish that adds depth to woodgrain, producing an antique-style finish on any surface.
Tung Oil Advantages:
There are no chemicals added to Tung Oil, it hasn’t been polymerized or hydrolyzed, it won’t yellow with age, it doesn’t turn rancid, it is mildew resistant, it’s one of the few oils that hardens completely and stays flexible after hardening and it is waterproof.
Tung oil has been used on boat decks for years, and is now becoming a popular wood floor finish.
Lastly, while all finishes can be damaged with Tung oil any damage is easily repaired.
Tung oil:
Tung oil or China wood oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree (Vernicia fordii).
Tung oil hardens upon exposure to air, and the resulting coating is transparent and has a deep, almost wet look.
The name is often used by paint and varnish manufacturers as a generic name for any wood finishing product that contains the real tung oil and/or provides a finish that resembles the finish obtained with tung oil.
Avoid rain for at least one week (2 weeks is preferred). If it does rain, or the surface gets wet, try to remove the water as quickly as possible. Cover surfaces when possible, but immediately remove any coverings when rain stops to allow the surface to breathe.
Avoid freezing temperatures for at least 2 weeks after the final coat is applied. Colder temperatures will also slow the curing process. If possible, wait for consistently warmer temperatures.
Do not apply tung oil in direct, intense sunlight. Heat and intense UV can cause the surface to cure too quickly leading to a wrinkled and frosted finish. If the surface will see intense sunlight, try to apply after the sun has left the surface for the day and after the surface has cooled down.
Pure Tung Oil is a hard wearing, naturally derived oil, extracted from the seed of the tung tree, and so is completely free from additives, making it non-toxic and safe to use in all environments and on a variety of items.
As well as being highly resistant to water, Tung Oil helps to prevent drying and deterioration of wood.
Lumbang oil is ideal for sealing bare and unfinished wood, helping to prevent it from marking and staining with use.
It’s these traits which make Tung Oil a great choice for food surfaces such as kitchen worktops, as well as kitchen utensils, children’s furniture and toys, and even outdoor wood such as decking.
Although Pure Tung Oil is easy to apply with a foam brush or lint free cloth, as it a natural oil that contains no thinners or drying agents, it has a longer drying time (of 24 hours) than some other oils. This is important to consider when oiling outdoor wood, such as decking.
Tung oil dries to a natural, matt finish and can be used on all types of wood, both hardwood and softwoods to enhance the natural beauty of the grain.
As well demonstrating how easy it is to use our Pure Tung Oil, you will also see the effects of the oil on 3 different pieces of wood: beech, oak and walnut – light to dark coloured woods.
You can see how the Tung Oil darkens them to a different degree but enhances the grain of the woods.
Steps for applying Tung Oil:
1. Clean the Surface
The proper application of tung oil depends on you starting with a clean and prepared surface.
Make sure there’s no grease, oil, dirt, dust, or other contaminants on the surface that Tung Oil will be used.
Tung oil can only be applied to bare surfaces or over another coat of tung oil.
Clean the surface with trisodium phosphate.
Sand the surface one more time Lumbang oil will be used with 150-grit sandpaper, and then vacuum well to remove all dust.
2. Thin the oil
A thinner will make the tung oil easier to apply, faster to dry, and will improve penetration.
The only time you shouldn’t thin Tung oil first is if you’re applying it to weathered wood, concrete, old and unfinished wood floors, or other highly absorbent surfaces.
To thin Tung oil, combine it with equal parts Citrus Solvent, mineral spirits, or Odorless Mineral Spirits before application.
You could also choose one of our pre-thinned options, Half & Half or Dark Half, to use straight out of the bottle.
3. Apply a generouos first layer
You can apply Tung Oil with a natural bristle brush, a sponge brush, or a soft and lint-free rag.
Apply the lumbang oil liberally to the surface.
Unlike varnish, which sits on top of the wood, the goal with tung oil is to thoroughly saturate the wood cells.
When you’ve applied the first coat, let the lumbang oil absorb.
4. Apply Subsequent coats
After the first coat has absorbed, apply a second coat to the lumbang oil.
Continue this process of applying coats, waiting 40 minutes between coats if necessary, until over 80 percent of the surface stays glossy for at least 40 minutes.
This means the wood cells have been saturated and you can move to the next step.
Decorative items may need two to four coats, while functional surfaces that will be handled, used, or walked on will need a minimum of three to five.
5. Removing unabsorbed oil from the surface
After you’ve applied multiple coats and the wood won’t absorb any more Tung Oil, use a clean rag to wipe the surface.
If there are any puddles of lumbang oil on the surface, mop them up with the rags.
This is important as you don’t want the tung oil to start curing on the surface.
At this point, your surface is fully saturated.
However, the pure tung oil will settle inside the wood/material overnight on through the next day.
To get the best finish we recommend applying one or two more coats of the lumbang oil, following the instructions previously stated, after this period of waiting.
Make sure to wipe up the Tung oil that’s on the surface that does not absorb.
Hang oil-soaked rags separately outside to dry before disposing.
6. Let the oil cure for up to 30 days
From here, Tung oil will need a week to 10 days to start curing, and 15 days to 30 days to fully cure.
Do not put the tung oiled object in direct sunlight for an extended period of time.
For the first 10 days of curing, check and wipe up any tung oil that may seep to the surface.
During this curing time, you can walk on floors with clean shoes, but avoid placing heavy objects on the floor or walking on it with dirty shoes.
There are no other sealers or protective products needed on top of Tung Oil.
It naturally seals, waterproofs, and protects your surfaces!
7. Clean you Surface
Pure tung oil is easy to clean.
For your floors or other wooden objects, just simply use hot water and standard dish soap.
8. Reapply as necessary to revive and provide more protection
Surfaces that are used often or walked on frequently may need some maintenance to revive their look and add more protection.
To do this, simply mix 2 parts thinner to 1 part tung oil and wipe down your surfaces.
Allow time to Lumbang oil to dry as necessary.
Overwiev to Tung oil:
Tung oil is 100% Natural, non-toxic and safe to use.
Tungoel is highly resistant to water and food stains.
Tung oil helps to prevent drying and deterioration of wood.
Tungoel dries to a natural, matt finish.
Tung oil is drying time of 24 hours.
Coverage: 20m2 per litre
Coats: 3 coats to bare wood
Re-coat time: Once previous has dried
Maintenance: Once a year, or when showing signs of ‘drying’
Application: Apply with a Foam Brush or Lint Free Cloth
Tung oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree (Vernicia fordii).
Tung oil hardens upon exposure to air, and the resulting coating is transparent and deep almost wet-look.
Lumbang Oil used mostly for finishing/protecting wood, after numerous coats the finish can even look plastic like.
Tungoel and its use are believed to have originated in ancient China and appear in the writings of Confucius from about 400 B.C. Raw tung oil tends to dry to a fine wrinkled finish; the US name for this is gas checking: this property was used to make wrinkle finishes, usually by adding excess cobalt drier.
To stop this, Tung Oil is heated to gas-proof it, and most oils used for coating are gas-proofed.
Thus, to avoid the wrinkling, all tung oil available for finishing today is “boiled”.
The Chinese have long turned to the tung nut as a treatment for a variety of ailments, as well as a waterproofing agent for their handmade boats.
Pure Tung oil has been popular for thousands of years.
These days, pure tung oil is also gaining momentum because it’s non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and food safe, meaning it’s ideal for kitchenware, butcher block, cutting boards, countertops, and even toys.
Applying tung oil is easy and effective also.
The main tips to remember are: don’t leave excess oil on the surface during the curing phase, no sanding necessary between coats, no other sealer or topcoats needed and use 2 parts thinner to 1 part tung oil for maintenance.
Tung oil is very popular today because of 2 properties:
First Tung Oil is natural or “green” product when it has dried.
Secondly, after Lumbang Oil cures (5 to 30 days, weather/temperature related), the result is a very hard and easily repaired finish.
This is why Tung Oil is used on boat decks and now on floors.
Tung Oil is often diluted with hydrocarbon thinner so that the viscosity is very low and enables the oil to penetrate the finest grain woods, this thinning vehicle evaporates within 15 to 20 minutes and results in a totally green residual finish.
As mentioned above, when applied in many fine/thinner coats over wood, tung oil slowly cures to a satin “wetted wood” look with slight golden tint.
Tung oil resists liquid water better than any other pure oil finish and does not darken noticeably with age and is claimed to be less susceptible to mould than linseed oil.
Most importantly, of all Tungoel finishes, tung oil is the only drying oil that will polymerize 100% (completely harden).
Linseed oil, for example, never completely hardens.
Achieve that sophisticated, subtle matt finish to your interior timber with Tung Oil.
Tung Oil contains the perfect consistency to deeply nourish your timber, and is resistant to water and spills – the perfect penetrating oil for wood floors and match for your interior rooms.
Achieve your Tung Oil finish quickly and easily, with the option to burnish or wax your floor if desired, and regular maintenance coats can be applied easily without sanding.
Tung Oil is a natural floor oil that is the low maintenance, high-end look you have dreamed of.
While tung oil has become popular as an environmentally friendly wood finish, it should be noted that many products labelled as “tung oil finishes” are deceptively labelled: polymerized oils, wiping varnishes, and oil/varnish blends have all been known to be sold as tung oil finishes (sometimes containing no tung oil at all), and all the above contain solvents and/or chemical driers. Product packaging will usually clearly state if it is pure tung oil.
Where to Use:
Tung Oil is recommended for use on interior, bare wood surfaces.
Tungoel is ideal for use on antiques and fine furniture.
Surface Preparation:
All surfaces that we will use Tungoel must be clean, dry, and free from dirt, wax, grease, glue, and other contaminants or penetration and adhesion will be affected.
Applicaton:
-Apply Old Masters Tung Oil with a lint-free cloth or by hand.
-On large surfaces or in high humidity, thinning with mineral spirits will improve application.
-Up to part one mineral spirits to one part Tung Oil may be used; however, thinning beyond this ratio will result in noncompliance with VOC regulations.
-When the entire area has been coated, wipe off excess oil with a soft, lint-free cloth.
-If a second coat is desired, allow the first coat to dry, then rub down with 0000 steel wool.
-Repeat steps 1 and 2. Do not apply more coats than the wood can absorb.
Thinning:
Up to one part mineral spirits to one part Tung Oil may be used; however, thinning beyond this ratio will result in noncompliance with VOC regulations.
Coverage:
Approximately 300 to 400 square feet per gallon depending upon method of application and the type and porosity of wood.
Drying Time:
Apply Tung Oil when air and surface temperatures are between 60° and 90°F and humidity is between 30% and 70%.
At 50% relative humidity and 70°F, 100% Tung Oil will dry in approximately 8 to 12 hours.
Cleanup Tung Oil:
For cleanup, we recommend using a cleaning solvent that is compliant in your air quality management district.
Check with your local government agencies to ensure proper compliance.
Prepared specifically based on natural oils extracted from the Chinese tung tree, giving it extraordinary efficacy in wood preservation
Colour: Honey
Pure Tung Oil is highly resistant to water, alcohol and food acids.
Providing a hardwearing finish, it is ideal for surfaces such as kitchen worktops, tables and all high quality interior wood.
Pure Tung Oil, with no added dryers, is a natural, non-toxic product which can be used on toys and objects in contact with food such as salad bowls etc.
Recommended for use on exterior oak.
Performance:
– Premium, pure and natural oil for wood care;
– Ideal for use on food contact surfaces – kitchen worktops, chopping boards and salad bowls;
– Provides a long lasting matt finish;
– Water, heat and alcohol resistant;
– EN 71 approved – safe for toys;
– Suitable for interior and exterior use;
– Recommended for use on external oak.
Pure tung oil forms a tough, all-natural oil finish that seals out water, and is completely unaffected by alcohol or acetone.
It penetrates deep into wood pores, sealing the surface and creating a smooth, satiny sheen.
Application:
Tung Oil is ready to use.
Apply Tung Oil using a brush or lint-free cotton cloth.
For ease of application dilute the first one or two coats with up to 50% white spirit.
Allow tung oil to penetrate for 20 to 30 minutes then wipe off the excess oil using a clean lint-free cloth.
Allow to dry for 24 hours between coats.
Apply further coats of Tung Oil as above, reducing the amount of white spirit used with subsequent coats.
Again allow 24 hours to dry.
Apply the last one or two coats of Tung Oil undiluted, as in previous applications.
After the final coat has been applied and the excess removed leave for 24 hours and wipe over again to aid drying and remove any oil that may have surfaced.
We recommend a minimum of 4 coats; more coats will be required for porous or external surfaces.
For best results gently rub with Liberon Ultra Fine Steel Wool (0000) between coats.
Application:
The traditional technique for applying pure tung oil is to dilute the oil 1:1 with solvent, then apply a succession of very thin films with a soft, lint-free cloth such as tee-shirt cotton.
Dilutents range from traditional spirits of turpentine to any of the new citrus-based thinners to naphtha.
The choice of thinner should be guided by how fast the coating needs to set, naphtha works well in spray-on applications in well-ventilated studios.
Primary coats may be laid down at a 1:1 oil-to-thinner ratio, and successive layers, if not absorbed into the wood, at higher solvent to oil concentrations.
This technique brings out the deepest color of the wood while maintaining a matte finish.
Tung oil finishes that start with polymerized oils or tung oil preparations are best applied in the fat over lean principle: thinned pure oil is applied to deeply penetrate the surface, to fill pores.
Straight oil is then applied moderately to adhere to the surface and provide a good base for the thick gloss layers.
The polymerized oil is then applied thickly as a single layer, allowed to fully dry, buffed smooth with very fine sandpaper and 0000 steel wool.
The surface is wiped clean with a moistened rag and allowed to dry.
A final coat is applied fairly thickly (the oil will smooth itself into a glass-like coating) and allowed to dry for two to three days.
Rags soaked with tung oil can spontaneously combust (burst into flame).
This penetrating Tung Oil creates a beautiful, hand-rubbed finish.
Tungoel provides a durable water and alcohol resistant oil finish that will not crack, chip, or peel.
Is Tung Oil risky choice for anyone suffering from a nut allergy?
Tung nuts are actually the seeds inside the fruit of the tung tree.
They fall into a category called “drupes,” which also includes other fleshy fruits surrounding a “pit” or shelled seed, such as cherries, plums, peaches and even almonds and pecans.
It’s not at all unusual for someone who has a tree nut allergy to be perfectly fine with consuming drupes.
Peanuts, by the way, are technically legumes.
Even if you can’t eat peanut butter, you may be able to safely enjoy coconut, peaches, pistachios and yes, even tung nuts and the resulting oil.
What is Tung Oil?
Originating from China and South America, tung oil—an extract from tung-tree nuts—is a natural drying oil that coats your fine wood furnishings with a transparent, wet finish.
Tung Oil enhances the color of your wood, offers excellent protection and is eco-friendly.
Pure tung oil vs linseed oil:
Among natural finishes, tung oil surpasses shellac and linseed oil in hardness, durability, and water resistance.
It’s also food-safe, once cured.
How many coats of tung oil should be used?
While there are many advantages to using Tung Oil, pure tung oil takes two to three days to harden, and needs at least five coats.
Oil/varnish blends and wiping varnishes are faster-drying, more practical options, but such terms rarely appear on labels.
Is Tung Oil food safe, Non-toxic, Eco friedly?
Yes. In Tung Oils purest form, it is completely non-toxic, eco-friendly, and food-safe.
That said, many of the finishes sold under the “tung oil” label are not pure tung oil.
What are the most common uses of Tung Oil?
Tung oil is commonly used as a wood finish for furniture, flooring, and on boat decks.
Tung Oil is especially useful with lighter woods like maple and ash as it dries clear and doesn’t yellow as it ages.
Is Tung Oil waterproof?
Although tung oil doesn’t offer the kind of water resistance that you’d find with a lacquer, varnish, or urethane, it is more water resistant than other oil finishes like linseed oil.
Can Tung Oil be used on Cutting Boards?
Yes– tung oil is an extremely popular finish for wood cutting boards and wood kitchen products.
Tung Oil is non-toxic and food friendly.
How do you maintain a Tung Oil Finish?
Re-oiling when the finish appears dry, which will be dependant on the type of wood, temperature and humidity.
Scratches and dents can be sanded out with a piece of high grit sandpaper or steel wool.
Is Tung Oil a good Finish for Wood furniture?
Tung oil is a great finish for those looking for a close-to-the-grain look and the ability to feel the texture of the wood.
In this case, a hard finish like a lacquer or varnish would be a poor choice.
Tung Oil is also eco-friendly, food-safe, and non-toxic, and it won’t turn yellow as it ages.
What’s the Difference Between Linseed Oil & Tung Oil?
Both linseed oil and tung oil– in their purest forms– are non-toxic, eco-friendly, and food-safe.
Linseed oil and tung oil are both plant-based oil finishes that penetrate and saturate the wood grain.
Here are some key differences between linseed oil and tung oil:
-Linseed oil carries a slight yellow tint, whereas tung oil dries to a clear finish.
-Tung oil creates a harder, more durable finish than linseed oil.
-Tung oil is more water-resistant than linseed oil.
-Raw linseed oil takes significantly longer to cure than pure tung oil.
-Tung oil is generally more expensive than linseed oil.
Application Tool: cloth or brush
Recoat: after 24 hours
Dry time: 5-10 minutes prior to buffing
Cleanup: mineral spirits or paint thinner following manufacturer’s safety instructions
Coverage: 125-150 sq. ft. per quar
Coats: 2 or 3
Recommended Uses: furniture, antiques, woodwork, cabinets, doors, paneling, accessories
Tung is a dark brown oil.
That is why tungoel is especially used in the garden for wooden garden furniture, closures, etc.
Let’s dive into a guide to Tung Oil and find out what the differences are between Tung Oil vs Hemp Oil.
Unpolymerized Tung Oil is easy to use, not as easy as Hemp Oil, however, there are pros and cons to every product that is out there.
Whilst Hemp Oil is easier to apply due to its naturally thin consistency making it spread super fast, it takes longer to dry, therefore it will not go sticky or tacky if a project is left for a few hours.
It is easily brushed or wiped on or off, and the drying time-sensitivity of the Tung Oil, Hemp Oil is better for the beginner finisher.
%100 Pure Tung Oil:
Tung oil is a finishing product that provides a tough, flexible and highly water-resistant coating.
It is classed as a drying oil along with linseed, poppy seed, safflower seed, walnut, soybean, oiticica and a few other oils.
Although relatively new to the Western world, tung oil has been known for centuries to the Chinese, and until this century, China was the main source for the oil.
It comes from the seed of the tung trees, Aleurites fordii and Aleurites montana, deciduous trees that are very susceptible to frost damage.
This vulnerability has restricted the cultivation of tung trees to China and South America.
Tung oil received wide application in China: in the building trades as a treatment for both stone and wooden structures; in marine trades as a preservative and water repellent on wooden boats.
It is said to have been introduced to the West by Marco Polo. From the 13th to the 19th century, tung oil had only limited use in the West.
In the 19th century it was adopted by the paint companies to become a major component in paints and varnishes.
More recently, tung oil has gained favor over linseed oil for furniture finishing because it is faster drying and does not darken as much with age.
Properties and Characteristics:
Pure tung oil is water and alkali resistant.
It resists marring, is elastic and unlikely to check.
Tung oil builds quickly and consolidates the wood surface.
This oil has been heat-treated to prevent premature gelling.
Nonetheless, it should be kept in an airtight container with minimum air space and not left standing open for more than a couple of hours.
Tung oil is non-toxic in the heat-treated pure form.
Use:
Your wood must be free of loose particles and completely smooth, as scratches or sanding marks may be emphasized when covered with China wood oil.
The surface should be dusted to remove all loose particles.
Since tung oil may raise the grain of the wood, you should moisten the surface to make any fiber ends stand up, and once dry, use sandpaper or steel wool to remove them before oiling.
Alternatively, you can lightly sand the first coat before applying the second.
Any filling, sealing or staining must be done before China wood oil is applied.
The first coat should be a liberal one, and you can rub it over the wood with your hand, a soft rag, or #000 steel wool (#0000 deteriorates badly).
Allow this application to sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the oil can soak in, then remove any excess with a clean, soft rag or steel wool.
Check after about a half-hour for any seeping, and rub this off as well.
Let dry completely (24 to 48 hours) between coats.
For woods with very open pores, allow an extra 24 hours drying time.
The number of coats of China wood oil to be applied will be determined by the intended use of the piece.
Two to four coats are enough for decorative work, panelling and molding.
Surfaces that receive moderate use or handling will need about six coats.
Heavily used surfaces, such as table tops, should be given ten or more coats for maximum protection, plus a light renewal coat a couple of times a year, renewal and building coats are quickly applied with steel wool.
This process will give you a surface that will stand up to vigorous use and spills; water will bead on the surface.
Pure tung oil is recommended for kitchen tables, chopping blocks and boards, and similar uses.
China wood oil is non-toxic nature makes it particularly appropriate for children’s toys and furniture.
Tung Oil gives good protection to wood panelling and molding.
Pure tung oil’s matte fi nish will do nicely on certain pieces of furniture, but if a glossy finish is preferred, you will need to buff and wax the fi nish, or use polymerized tung oil or a formulated tung-oil-based product.
By itself, pure tung oil will not give good results on steps, floors, or in outdoor applications, and for these uses China wood oil is usually mixed with goodquality varnish to give a highly effective protection.
We recommend further reading and testing on mixtures for these uses.
Tung oil can be painted over with excellent results, and the oil will enhance the paint’s adherent qualities.
We have found tung oil to be a valuable helper in the workshop.
Tung Oil adheres very well to metal, and a light coat rubbed onto tool steel is an effective rust inhibitor.
Wooden handles will also benefit from the occasional coat.
Appearance: Liquid
Physical State: Liquid
Odor: Solvent Like Odor
Threshold: N.E.
Relative Density: 0.910
pH: N.A.
Freeze Point, °C: N.D.
Viscosity: N.D.
Solubility in Water: None
Partition Coefficient, n-octanol/water: N.D.
Decompostion Temp., °C: N.D.
Boiling Range, °C: 100 – 316
Explosive Limits, vol%: 1.0 – 6.0
Flammability: Supports Combustion
Flash Point, °C: 41
Evaporation Rate: Slower than Ether
Auto-ignition Temp., °C: N.D.
Vapor Density: Heavier than Air
Vapor Pressure: N.D.
Tung oil has been recognized for centuries as the finest of oil finishes.
Tung Oil produces a tough, hard, surface that is absolutely waterproof, abrasion resistant and non-toxic.
Tung oil penetrates wood fibers enhancing both grain and color.
Tungoel will not yellow as linseed oil finishes do.
Tung oil is revered by craftsmen for its warm, hand rubbed look.
Masters Blend Tung oil has a light honey color and a nutty aroma.
Tung oil is naturally non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
There are many products on the shelves claiming to be “Tung oil finish”.
These are generally standard varnishes that have been thinned with cheaper petroleum solvent.
Many contain no actual Tung oil. This is why ours is called “100% Pure”.
Tung oil is the easiest finish to repair.
Simply rub damaged area with 0000-steel wool and apply more Tung oil.
Pure Tung Oil is a pure natural non-toxic oil and is completely free from solvent.
Tung Oil has good penetration into all types of timber without leaving a film and Tung Oils special properties make it highly resistant to water, alcohol and food stuffs.
Tung Oil is additive free and safe for use in contact with food.
Tung Oil forms a hard wearing finish making it suitable for kitchen work surfaces, chopping boards and interior wood work.
Tung oil
CAS No.: 8001-20-5
Color (Gardner)< 87-8
Specific Gravity (20/4)0.936~0.93950.9384
Refractive Index (20)1.5170~1.52201.5203
Iodine value (g/100g)163~173167
Saponification value(mg/g)190~195191.8
Moisture and Impurities<0.3%0.021
Free Fatty Acid(%)<31.5
Warstall’s heat test<7.5min4’48”
Model beta tung oil test
Negative (No crystalizion)Negative (No crystalizion)
Others Name:
TUNG OIL
chinawood
CHINA WOOD OIL
TUNG OIL PARAFORMALDEHYD
TUNGMEAL
Tungoel
Einecs 232-272-3
Tung oil [oil, misc.]
Range of Aplication: Adults and Elderly
Grade Standard: Reagent Grade
Density: 0.937 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Index of Refraction: n20/D 1.52(lit.)
Flash Point: >230 °F
Storage: 2-8°C
Tung oil:
Tung oil or China wood oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree (Vernicia fordii).
As a drying oil, tung oil hardens (dries) upon exposure to air.
The resulting coating is transparent and plastic-like, a property exploited in most of Tungoel applications which include wood finishing and the composition of oil paints and printing inks.
When applied in many fine coats over wood, tung oil slowly cures to a satin “wetted wood” look with slight golden tint.
China wood oil resists liquid water better than any other pure oil finish, though it still provides little protection against water vapor exchange or scratches.
Tung oil does not darken noticeably with age and is claimed to be less susceptible to mold than linseed oil.
Storage:
Given Tung Oils tendency to gel, pure tung oil should never be left standing open for more than a couple of hours.
It will keep indefinitely in an airtight container that protects China wood oil from light and extremes of temperature.
Remember to dispose of oily rags promptly and safely.
Warranty:
At Lee Valley, we have come to believe that tung oil is the fi nest of natural finishing oils.
Although we guarantee this preparation to be of the highest quality, Tung Oils correct use and application is beyond the control of the manufacturer and seller.
No warranty is made with respect to results from the use of this product.
Tung oil can be applied pure (without additives) if a non-toxic finish is required, if this is not necessary, you can accelerate the drying process and greatly improve the penetration by cutting the first coat of China wood oil with mineral spirits by 50%.
Remember: Pure tung oil becomes toxic with these substances mixed into China wood oil, although the finish produced is not toxic because the driers evaporate.
Danger of Combuston:
Materials such as rags or steel wool when Tung Oil is used with this product may begin to burn by themselves.
After useing Tungoel, put rags in water or lay flat to dry, then discard.
Keep Tung Oil out of reach of children.
Choosing the right type of tung oil finish:
Penetrating tung oil finishes come in three varieties: pure tung oil, oil/varnish blends, and wiping varnish.
They all share the benefits that tung oil imparts to a finish—durability, water resistance, resilient hardness, and color stability—depending on how much of the oil they actually contain and what form it takes.
Tung oil is used to protect wood surfaces and leave them with a stunning natural finish.
Tung oil is a clear and fast-drying oil, ideal for kitchen worktops and surfaces for food preparation as China wood oil is hardwearing and non-toxic when dry.
Tungoel is highly resistant to water, heat, alcohol and food acids, China wood oil is suitable for use on various wooden surfaces.
Various quantities of China wood oil is available.
Pure tung oil:
Pure tung oil is easy to identify because it contains no solvents.
That may be a good thing in terms of limiting your exposure to VOCs, but applying Tung Oil is an exacting, drawn-out process.
You have to wait at least two to three days for each coat to harden.
And it takes five to seven coats to get a protective film.
Rushing the process, or applying too thick a coat, causes wrinkling, which has to be sanded off.
Regular reapplication is a must—“once a week for a month, once a month for a year, once a year ever after,” as the saying goes.
The results can be gorgeous of using Tung Oil, as long as you have the necessary patience.
How To Use:
Preparation:
Ensure the wood surface is bare.
Remove any wax finishes with Wax and Polish Remover and any varnish finishes with Fine Wood Stripper.
Clean, dry and ensure the surface is dust-free.
Pure Tung Oil is water and alkali resistant offering a protective barrier.
A Pure Tung Oil finish will not darken with age as other finishes will.
Tung Oil resists marring, penetrates well, remains elastic and unlikely to craze.
Tung oil builds quickly, consolidates the wood surface and leaves a ansparent matte finish.
Pure Tung Oil finish will not mildew or bleed like linseed oil when dry which makes it an excellent candidate for outdoor finishes.
Tungoel should be kept in an airtight container with minimum air space.
Pure Tung Oil contains no thinners or driers and has a light nutty odour.
A Pure Tung il finish mixed with Citrus Solvent is a all natural organic finish that is environmentally safe and food safe.
Application:
Ready to use, apply Pure Tung Oil using a brush or lint-free cotton cloth.
For ease of application dilute the first one or two coats with up to 50% white spirit.
Allow Tung Oil to penetrate for 20 to 30 minutes then wipe off the excess oil using a clean lint-free cloth.
Allow to dry for 24 hours between coats.
Apply further coats of Pure Tung Oil as above, reducing the amount of white spirit used with subsequent coats, again allow 24 hours to dry.
Apply the last one or two coats of Pure Tung Oil undiluted, as in previous applications.
After the final coat has been applied and the excess removed leave for 24 hours and wipe over again to aid drying and remove any oil that may have surfaced.
We recommend a minimum of four coats, more coats will be required for porous or external surfaces.
For best results gently rub with Ultra Fine Steel Wool (Grade 0000) between coats.
Leave for a few days before use to allow the Pure Tung Oil to dry fully.
Furniture items may be finished with Wax Polish Black Bison for an improved lustre.
Important:
Tung Oil finishes bring out the natural colours of timber.
A wet surface will be an indication of the final colour.
Always test the product on a spare surface or inconspicuous area for colour, compatibility and end result.
Cleaning and maintenance:
Pure Tung Oil must be maintained on a regular basis.
Apply at least once or twice a year or more if required, depending upon exposure to the weather and usage.
On exposed external timbers Tung Oil is important to apply sufficient coats of Tung oil to give the initial protection.
Precautions
Pure Tung Oil is extracted from nuts and may cause an allergic reaction.
Store Pure Tung Oil at a temperature above 5°C.
Always replace the lid otherwise the oil can deteriorate.
Oily cloths can self-combust.
Do not leave impregnated cloths in bundles.
Before discarding the cloths lay them flat outside to dry to avoid a fire hazard.
If the excess is not removed and the surface becomes sticky, wipe with white spirit to remove the sticky film and allow to dry before continuing.
Application Method: Brush
Color/Finish: Clear
Dry to touch (min.): 30
Interior Paint & Stains Product Type: Oil/Conditioner
Interior/Exterior: Interior
Number of coats recommended: 2
Number per Package: 1
Paint Tool Product Type: Interior Paint/Stain
Paint/Stain Clean Up: Mineral Spirits
Paint/Stain Features: No additional features
Product Form: Liquid
Substrate Condition: Bare Wood,Finished Wood,Unfinished Wood
Time before recoating (hours): 25
Transparency: Transparent
Vertical/Horizontal: Vertical / Horizontal
Wood Oil Type: Tung
Features:
Tung Oil Polyurethane is a deep penetrating, wear resistant clear timber coating predominantly for use on timber floors where a traditional subdued gloss finish is desired.
Where To Use:
Use tung oil on timber floors and most interior woodwork such as built-in furniture, skirting boards and panelling.
Oil/varnish blends vs. wiping varnishes:
Oil/varnish blends and wiping varnishes were created to speed up these poky drying times and make application less fussy.
Both types do this by adding man-made resins and solvents to keep those resins in solution.
If you see “contains petroleum distillates” on the label, then it’s one of these finishes.
The difference between these two is subtle.
Blends consist of an oil (or oils) mixed in with a varnish.
Wiping varnishes are just what the name implies—straight varnishes that have been thinned enough to be wiped on with a cloth.
All the oils in a varnish are bound up in the resin.
Unfortunately, the terms “oil/varnish blend” and “wiping varnish” are seldom used by manufacturers to describe their tung oil products.
The easiest way to tell them apart is to read the application instructions.
If they say to wait a certain number of minutes after you put the finish on, and then to wipe up or buff off the excess, it’s a blend.
If the instructions don’t call for a follow-up wipe, then it’s a wiping varnish, which dries smooth and hard all on its own.
Tung oil protects, nurtures and beautifies wood like no other finishing product available.
Pure Tung oil is the perfect choice for food preparation areas because it is a eco-friendly, green, natural product without additives.
It is known for Lumbang Oils longevity, durability, and easy reparability.
Tung Oil is impervious to water and most other liquids.
Unlike a lot of natural oils it is impervious to mold, it won’t darken with age and it won’t become rancid.
Like all oils, Tung oil is flexible so it moves easily with woods natural seasonal expansion and contraction.
Like all other oils Tung Oil can be easily repaired when damaged.
Unlike most other oils and top coats in Lumbang Oils pure form it contains no harmful VOC’s or other chemicals.
Drying oils such as soybean oil, linseed oil, tung oil harden to a tough, solid film after a more or long time of exposure to air.
Tung oil is Suitable For:
Tung Oil can be used on all types of wood (oak, beech, teak, etc), both hardwood and softwoods, and is 100% natural so is great for anyone looking for an all natural oil.
It’s great for:
Interior & Exterior Wood
Hardwoods and Softwoods
Kitchen Worktops & Utensils
Furniture
Doors and Windows
Hardwood Floors
Toys
Turned Wood
Untreated timber and bare wood
Decking – it is a great natural decking oil
UPAC name
tung oil
Other names
China wood oil
lumbang oil
tung oil paraformaldehyde
tungmeal
tungoel
Identifiers
CAS Number: 8001-20-5 check
ECHA InfoCard: 100.029.338
EC Number: 232-272-3
UNII: 3C8NM3A2P0
Properties
Density: 0.937 g/ml at 25°C
Refractive index: 1.52 (20°C)
Flash point: >110°C
Tung Oil Finish will quickly and easily enhance the natural color and warmth of interior wood surfaces.
Fast drying formula of Tungoel provides superior protection against moisture and penetrates deeply into the surface of stained or unfinished wood for a genuine, hand rubbed finish.
Tung Oil will not darken with age and can be reapplied periodically for increased gloss or to refresh wood luster over time.
Product Name: Tung oil
Other names: Tung oil, tung oil price, tung oil powder, tung oil manufacturer
CAS NO: 8001-20-5
Molecular Formula: n/a
Molecular Weight: n/a
Appearance: Yellow oil
Also known as China wood oil, tung oil is a non-toxic, hard-drying oil that forms an elastic film resistant to abrasion and moisture.
Tung Oil penetrates well and builds a transparent but matte finish on wood, emphasizing the grain and color.
Tungoel is a good general-purpose finish and is approved for food-contact items.
China wood oil contains no thinners or driers.
The fatty acids in tung oil and their concentration are listed:
Alpha-eleostearic acid: 82.0%
Linoleic acid: 8.5%
Palmitic acid: 5.5%
Oleic acid: 4.0%
Pure Tung Oil is a premium, pure and natural oil for woodcare.
Tungoel is suitable for interior and exterior use, it is highly resistant to water, alcohol and food acids.
Providing a hard wearing finish, Lumbang Oil is ideal for surfaces such as tables and all high quality interior wood.
Recommended for use on external oak, Tungoel contains no added dryers, and is safe to use on toys.
China wood oil provides a long-lasting, matt finish.
Tung oil is sold as Pure Tung Oil and a variety of Tung Oil Finishes.
The Finish variety or any Tung oil product not labeled as Pure has been polymerized, hydrolyzed or contain additives many of which are petroleum based.
All are done to enhance speed of application, drying times and in many cases manufacturer profits.
Many of the additives emit VOC’s (Volatile Organic Chemicals) so they are no longer an eco-friendly, green product nor are they “food safe”.
Tung oil comes from the seeds of the nuts from the Chinese Tung tree, so if you have a nut or seed allergy proceed with caution, it may not be the best choice for surfaces or utensils that will be in direct contact with food.
While there is a lot of debate concerning the possibility of nut/seed allergy there are other oil finish choices where food safety is an issue.
The other popular wood finishing oil is Boiled Linseed Oil and it has a ton of woodworker and finishing fans.
The biggest advantage of tung Oil is speed of application and cost.
Pros & Cons of Tung Oil as a Wood Finish:
There are many reasons a craftsman might consider using tung oil to finish wood furniture.
Tung Oil is all natural, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, and it doesn’t yellow as much over time as common finishes like linseed oil, nitrocellulose lacquer, or varnishes like polyurethane.
On the other hand, tung oil is expensive and susceptible to water rings, stains, and scratches.
Easy to Use:
Tung oil is a natural oil recognized by craftsmen to offer the ultimate hand-rubbed finish for all fine woods; just wipe on and allow Tung oil to cure at room temperature.
Permeates:
Unlike other finishes that form a film on the wood’s surface, tung oil penetrates deep into the wood fibers, cures to a flexible non-oily solid, and becomes part of the wood itself.
Protects:
Resistant to moisture, alcohol, oil, and everyday wear for lasting beauty and protection; lasts many times longer than mineral oil and wax based products.
Multi Use:
Amazing results on almost any surface that will allow tung oil to penetrate – new unfinished wood, weathered wood, stripped wood, concrete floors and countertops, even brick, stone, and cast iron.
Great for Food Contact Surfaces – Since tung oil is considered non-toxic when dry, it is great for cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, wooden bowls, wooden utensils, and more.
Many people think tung oil only just emerged in 1965, when Homer Formsby put his special tung-oil based formulation on the market.
While we undoubtedly owe a lot to Formsby for popularizing this incredible oil, his product was a slight reinvention of an oil first found in writings by Confucius way back in 500 B.C.
There’s a reason tung oil is also known as China wood oil.
Tung Oil Disadvantages:
There are a few downsides to Tung oil.
Tung Oil costs more than many other oils, it dries slower so takes additional time between coats, it typically takes 30-45 days to cure depending on temperature and humidity and it requires 5-8 coats for proper application.
That said, if beauty combined with function and durability is what you are after Tung oil should be at the top of your list.
Proper Tung Oil Application and Surface Preparation:
Oils, unlike clear surface coatings polyurethane, lacquer and shellac, should be finish sanded anywhere from 320 to 400 grit sandpaper.
Surface coatings will hide 180 grit sandpaper scratches whereas Tung oil will accentuate them.
So when oiling wood a finer finish sanding is highly recommended.
First Aid – Eye Contact:
Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes holding eyelids open.
Get medical attention.
Do NOT allow rubbing of eyes or keeping eyes closed.
First Aid – Skin Contact:
Wash skin with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Get medical attention if irritation develops or persists.
First Aid – Inhalation:
Remove to fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.
Get immediate medical attention.
Do NOT use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
If you experience difficulty in breathing, leave the area to obtain fresh air.
If continued difficulty is experienced, get medical assistance immediately.
First Aid – Ingestion:
If swallowed, get medical attention.
Applying Tung Oil – The Final Coat:
Your final coat of Tung oil should be applied full strength don’t sand the final coat.
Paste wax on wood is just like paste wax on your car.
It offers minimal protection but adds depth and smoothness to your wood project.
Please avoid waxes with silicone additives.
Silicone adds a slippery texture that feels nice to the touch but fouls refinishing coatings and becomes an absolute bear to remove should you ever decide to touch-up or refinish your project.
Tung Oil Repair:
Clean the damaged area, apply pure Tung oil undiluted to a soft cotton cloth and wipe it on.
If Tung Oil soaks it up quickly apply a little more and repeat until the wetness lasts for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, with a little elbow grease, rub the Tung oil into the damaged area for a few minutes.
Wipe any excess and you’re done.
Tung Oil Rag Disposal:
Oily rags are volatile and should be hung to air dry.
Rags have been known to spontaneously combust when balled up in a refuge container.
Product Description:
Mohawk Tung Oil (Modified) is a proprietary blend of non-break tung oil and propolymerized alkyd resin in a solvent system.
Recognized as fast drying, hard, resistant to water, acid, alkali and mildew.
One of the most durable of all natural oils is tungoel.
Tung Oil preserves the natural color of the wood.
Surface scratches in a Tung Oil finish piece can be removed with a small amount of Tung Oil.
Tung Oil – Dry vs Hardening:
Tung oil dries in a few days and can be put in moderate service.
Tung Oil does not fully cure or harden for 30-45 days.
Tung oil is a plant-based oil used as a wood finish.
It is clear, quick-drying, and penetrates the grain to enhance and protect the wood.
Tung Oil is one of the oldest and most popular wood finishes in the world and is derived from the seeds of the tung tree in Eastern Asia.
Tung oil has become a staple among fine furniture craftsmen in the United States and beyond.
Tung Oil is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and food-safe.
Vermont Furniture Designs uses tung oil on maple furniture as an alternative to linseed oil.
Due to the dense grain of maple, linseed oil doesn’t penetrate well and can result in a blotchy appearance.
Tung oil has no issues penetrating the dense maple grain, and because it dries clear, it’s a great finish for lighter colored woods.
Tung oil is available as a finish on cherry and walnut, as well, upon request.
Similarly to linseed oil, it is difficult to find furniture that is made with raw or 100% pure tung oil. Many craftsmen will use boiled or polymerized tung oil, and it’s also common for manufacturers to mislabel products as tung oil when they’re not. If you’re interested in a tung oil finish, it’s worth doing a bit of digging to understand exactly what finish is being used and what it’s comprised of.
What you should have on hand before starting:
New Wood
Old Wood or Damaged Wood Surfaces –3 Grades and a mechanical sander
Tack Cloth
Latex Gloves
Applicator
Pure Tung Oil
Thinner: Either mineral spirits or an eco-friendly citrus based thinner
Suitable mixing container
Clean rag for wiping excess
Mineral spirits
Handling of Tung Oil:
Wash thoroughly after handling.
Wash hands before eating.
Remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse.
Use only with adequate ventilation.
Follow all SDS and label precautions even after container is emptied because it may retain product residues.
Avoid breathing fumes, vapors, or mist.
Avoid contact with eyes, skin and clothing.
Storage of Tung Oil:
Store Tung Oil in a dry, well ventilated place.
Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
Keep containers tightly closed.
Isolate from heat, electrical equipment, sparks and open flame.
Avoid excess heat.
Tung Oil can also prevent corrosion on metals and stones.
Properties of Tung Oil:
100% Pure Tung Oil
Unpolymerised
Retains natural wood color
Water Resistant
Alcohol resistant
Matte to satin matte finish
Ideal for food preparation surfaces
Quality Level: 100
form: liquid
composition:
ester of eleostearic acid, 80%
esters of linolenic, 9,12-linoleic, oleic, stearic and palmitic acids, 20%
gel time: 12 min
color: Gardner: ≤12
refractive index: n20/D 1.52 (lit.)
acid number: ≤6.9 mg KOH/g
iodine value: >220
saponification value: 189‑195 mg KOH/g
density: 0.937 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
Positive aspects of Tung Oil:
Zero VOCs (pure tung oil)
All Natural, non-toxic and eco-friendly
Food safe
Doesn’t yellow over time
Easy to apply
Easy to repair dents and scratches
Mildly water resistant
Negative aspects of Tung Oil:
Susceptible to water damage and stains (although more resistant to liquids than linseed oil)
Susceptible to scratches (although more durable than linseed oil)
Cost is typically higher than linseed oil.
Typically requires up to 5 coats to produce a more pleasing satin sheen.
Old Masters offers an extensive line of wood care products that enable you to beautify or protect all of your fine wood finishes.
Using a combination of Old Masters wood care products will ensure these treasured pieces will sustain their beauty forever.
Specific weight at 25 °C – ca. 0.9320
Refraction index at 25 °C – 1.5165 – 1.5200
Free fatty acid [%] – max. 2.5
Iodine value [Wijs] – min. 158
Colour [Gardner] – max. 9
Moisture [%] – max. 0.2
Tung oil is an essential raw material of present-day varnish manufacture, and in fact its unique properties render it indispensable for certain types of varnish.
Until comparatively recently, China has satisfied the world’s demand for tung oil, and will, it is considered, continue to remain the chief source for some years to come.
The oil is derived from two species of Aleurites, Fordii and montana, of which the former is the chief source.
It was Wilson, a naturalist in western China, who in 1915, after a study of the species of Aleurites, solved the question as to the true origin of tung oil.
A. Fordii has its habitat chiefly in western and central China, whilst A. montana is found more to the south.
Tung oil, also termed China wood oil, was known outside China about 1760.
When using pure tung oil, you need several coats, it’s very important that you thin each coat with the first coat being the thinnest (I recommend 70 percent solvent).
Each successive coat should be thicker (less thinned), and the last coat must be the thickest.
Your thinner needs to be an organic solvent, one that is carbon based like turpentine, mineral spirits or the newfangled “citrus solvent”.
Characteristics
Tung Oil is Glossy, slightly yellowish, highly weather resistant and with good drying properties.
1 litre of Tunoel covers about 20 square yards.
A coat of Tung Oil Varnish is dust dry within 2 hours, hard in 8 hours, and can be over-painted after a day.
Application of Tungoel is by brush or spray gun (special precautions: tung oil is considered toxic!).
For outside applications four coats are recommended, for inside two coats are usually sufficient.
Tung Oil Varnish is highly resistant to scratches and abrasion, and also UV stable, which is why it is used around ocean water or at high altitudes, as well as on staircases and wooden floors that receive high traffic.
Colors can be added: 60 grams of pigment per litre do not compromise the paint film, and store bought oil paints can be added up to approx.
10 %. Tung Oil Varnish is used straight out of the can.
Forms: liquid
Solubility in water: soluble
Tung Oil can be used as a timber finish and is widely used as a drier in varnishes and paints.
Pure Tung Oil is also a most Effective seal for concrete bench-tops, floors , slate/ stone, terracotta, mud brick (adobe) and other similar constructions.
The finish tung oil is more suited for interior or exterior/protected use than fully exposed exterior, due to a lack of UV resistance.
The name is often used by paint and varnish as a generic name for any wood finishing product that contains the real tung oil and/or provides a finish that resembles that obtained with it.
Where to Use:
Since Tung Oil works by penetrating the wood’s surface, it must be used on unfinished/bare woods, surfaces where the old finish has been removed, or, as milk paint is also porous, Tung Oil can also be used over milk painted furniture.
Tung oil comes from the seeds of several species of Aleurites, primarily Aleurites fordii, a deciduous shade tree native to China.
Tungoel belongs to the Euphorbia Family (Euphorbiaceae) along with the candlenut tree (A. molucanna), another species with seeds rich in unsaturated oils.
For centuries tung oil has been used for paints and waterproof coatings, and as a component of caulk and mortar.
Tungoel is an ingredient in “India ink” and is commonly used for a lustrous finish on wood.
In fact, the “teak oil” sold for fine furniture is usually refined tung oil.
Some woodworkers consider tung oil to be one of the best natural finishes for wood.
Applying Pure Tung Oil – Properly:
Tung Oil can be applied with a natural bristle brush, a foam sponge type brush or a clean cotton rag.
If using a cotton cloth swatch, fold it into a pad so there are no cut edges with hanging threads touching your surface to be finished.
Start with the hardest to reach spots first to avoid contact later in the application.
Apply following the grain of the wood.
The object of the first coat is to saturate the wood as deeply as possible.
Apply a generous but controllable amount of Tung oil to your applicator especially for the initial few coats.
The surface should look very wet but not puddled.
The thinned oil should soak in rather quickly to kiln dried wood.
Older and reclaimed woods will suck it up like a camel in the dessert.
All areas should look wet but if any areas have standing puddles spread them out or wipe them off.
On the flip side if your wood sucks in your application, reapply again and again keeping the surface wet (but not puddled) with oil for the next 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes your wood should be saturated with oil and any excess wiped off.
Watch for the next couple hours and if any excess oil has bubbled to the surface wipe it off.
At this point allow to dry before applying the next coat.
Re-application Timing – The Pitfall of Tung Oil.
As mentioned earlier there is no more beautiful finish to a wood surface than Tung oil provides.
There is a trade-off and that trade-off is drying time and layering of coats.
Lacquer can be reapplied within minutes and the complete project with multiple coats completed in less than a day.
But the appearance of a lacquer finish doesn’t come close to a properly done Tung oil finish.
After the initial and subsequent applications you should wait 2-7 days before sanding and reapplying.
Wait time is based on how quickly the surface dries.
This is a factor based on temperature, humidity and thickness of the coat.
Since early coats have been thinned they tend to dry much quicker.
If taking a 10-45 days to complete your project is unreasonable and you still want close to the appearance of a pure Tung oil finish, you could switch to a polymerized Tung oil finish product (not pure Tung oil) or to boiled linseed oil, both cut finish time substantially.
Polymerized Tung oil has been heat treated and additives that speed drying times added.
The downside to speed is appearance.
Pure Tung oil gives off a deep, rich, matte-like finish.
Tung Oil really accentuates the grain patterns and adds depth to your wood’s surface.
Polymerized produces a more shiny, reflective surface.
Tung Oil Re-coating – Sanding Between Coats
Typical dry times are between 2 and 7 days before re-coating.
You can test to see if the surface is ready to be re-coated by doing a light sanding in a small area with a 400-600 grit sandpaper.
If the sanding produces a fine white dust you are good to go.
If on the other hand it turns gummy and clogs your paper the surface is not dry enough for re-coating.
Between coats just before apply your next coat do a very lite sanding following the direction of the grain.
Use either a 400-600 grit sandpaper or a grey scotch brite pad.