Mineral+Spirits

Mineral spirits is also called Stoddard solvent, which is a clear, mild, organic solvent or paint thinner. It is a mixture of saturated aliphactic and alicylic C7 to C12 hydrocarbons with a maximum content of 25% of C7 to C12 alkyl aromatic hydrocarbons. Because it is less flammable than other paint thinners and much less toxic, many artists use it in place of turpentine, but this also means that they must use a higher grade because of the way it reacts with pigments in paint. Odorless Mineral Spirits exists as well, which lack harsh aromatic compounds. Mineral Spirits is also used as a degreasing solvent in wood preservatives, varnishes, aerosols, and lacquers.

According to its MSDS, Mineral Spirits has a health hazard of 2, a flammability rating of 2, and a reactivity rating of 0. It is advised that Mineral Spirits be used in a well-ventilated area for short periods of time, as the vapors can be harmful when inhaled. It is also combustable and can be ignited easily; should this happen, the fire should be put out with a dry chemical powder or appropriate foam.

It's difficult to find information about its use in embalming, but it is hinted in an article that hydrocarbon mineral spirits can be used as an oil-based coverup cosmetic.

I found it interesting that Mineral Spirits is an alternative to turpentine due to its lower flammability, but is still quite flammable and dangerous to use. I also wonder if and why anyone still uses toxic Mineral Spirits when much less harmful odorless ones are available.