Tung Oil Vs Linseed Oil

Tung oil is a combination of fatty acids - palmitic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and eleostearic acid. It is basically extracted from the nut of the tung tree. It is slightly golden in color and highly useful. Linseed oil, on the other hand, is made up of a combination of palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and omega 3 fatty acid. it is a very commonly used oil in day-to-day activities.

The main use of tung oil is in the finishing of wood products. Scratches present on the wooden furniture can be eliminated easily with a finishing touch of tung oil. If you desire to give a smooth finishing to the surface, it is a must to have a smooth surface.

Linseed oil is yellowish in color. It is also used for giving a finishing touch to the wooden furniture. Its polymer-like properties helps it in blending with other oils. It can also be blended with solvents and resins. It is used in oil paints as a pigment binder. It is edible and hence is consumed by humans. However, excess consumption of this oil is dangerous.

Tung Oil

• Tung oil is also referred to as wood oil and is produced from the seed kernels of the tung tree. The tung trees are mainly found in China.
• In order to get the oil, the seeds are harvested and pressed.
• This is a conjugated oil. It consists of polyunsaturated fats and the double bonds of this oil are fully or partially conjugated.
• Its is in the prevention of rusting. Hence, it is used in tin cans and cars for serving the above purpose. It is used in the insulation of electrical devices.
• It is used for giving a shiny finishing touch to wooden furniture. It is also used outdoors because of its anti-wear and anti-resistant properties.
• It is derived from tree nuts and hence, some people might be allergic to it. It can lead to the darkening of amber hue which is an undesirable property.
• When applying this essential oil, apply a coat, allow it to dry completely and then apply sand between each coat. It might take days for the coating to dry.

Linseed Oil

• The seeds of flax plant are a source of linseed oil and hence, it is also referred to as flaxseed oil. Flax plants are found majorly in Asia and central Europe.
• The flaxseeds are either grounded or pressed for releasing the oil.
• This is a non-conjugated oil. It is fatty oil and consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids, but the double bonds of this oil are separated by minimum two single bonds.
• It is used in making linoleum flooring. It is used in paints as well. As this oil is made of flax seeds, it is used as a nutritional supplement. In order to make the surfboards water-resistant, they are coated with it.
• While it is used for giving a glossy look to the wood material, it can also help in weight loss.
• One coat of linseed oil is sufficient and it does not require sanding.
• Along with the benefits, there are a few side effects as well. This oil being combustible, poses risk of catching fire. Another drawback is that it is not waterproof. As time passes, its color changes to yellow.

The above information on tung oil vs linseed oil must have added to your knowledge about them. After knowing the pros and cons, you will know which oil to be appropriately used for your needs. If you are using these oils for giving a finishing touch to your wooden furniture, then make sure that you re-apply them after a year. You can use a brush, clean cotton rag or a sprayer for applying the oil.