C.S. POGUE

Lithotine is a variable blend of petroleum distillate hydrocarbons. The primary component is Mineral Spirits (<85%) aka White Spirits; Stoddard Solvent; Mineral Turpentine; Turpentine Substitute; Naphtha Solvent. “Low Odor” Mineral Spirits have had the most aromatic of these hydrocarbons removed, leaving the lower aromatics behind to perform the solvent function.

The MSDS sheet for Anco Lithotine (manufactured by Jell Chemicals) a common product in the printmaking studio, also includes these petroleum-based components:

Compound	% w	Target Organs (per Sigma Aldrich)
1,2,4 Trimethylbenzene	1-5%	Kidneys, Heart, Liver, Central Nervous, Eye
Xylene	1-5%	Liver, Kidneys, Heart, Blood, Bone Marrow
Ethylbenzene	<1%	Carcinogen, Blood, Central Nervous System
Napthalene	<1%	Carcinogen, Blood, Eyes, Lungs

While present in relatively low concentrations in Lithotine, the MSDS warns that Lithotine can be fatal to humans when inhaled or swallowed. Upon inhalation or ingestion, these compounds circulate through the body without natural metabolic mechanisms and can accumulate in various organ tissues. For further reference, search the EPA Toxicological Reviews of these compounds. Hazmat shipping charges apply.

D & S BioSolut is 100% bio-based Ethyl Lactate, and is considered to be a biodegradable solvent. It is formed from lactic acid and ethanol (grain alcohol). Upon contact with water molecules, whether in liquid or vapor form, it hydrolyzes back into those components, and the human body has well-developed metabolic mechanisms for coping with both of them. It occurs naturally in foodstuffs such as wine, chicken, and various fruits, and is FDA-approved for use as a food additive, for pharmaceuticals, skin and hair cleansers, and fragrances. It has no known carcinogenic or mutagenic effects, and is considered to be non-damaging to the ozone layer with no environmentally harmful ingredients. It is water-miscible and easily rinsed with water. Because of its solvent capabilities to dissolve oils, including skin oils, it should be handled with gloves and with eye protection in place. Adequate ventilation is always recommended in the studio to prevent excessive concentration of vapors. Hazmat shipping charges are not required. And best of all, BioSolut really performs well for printmaking applications!

D & S BioSolut is a highly effective wash-out solvent for all traditional lithographic drawing materials including crayons, reticulated washes, and Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Pens. It is an effective cleaner for adhesives and oil-based inks. IT IS NOT TO BE USED TO REMOVE INK FROM STONES OR PLATES AS IT WILL ALSO REMOVE THE IMAGE! USE SOYBEAN OIL TO REMOVE INK AFTER GUMMING THE PLATE, OR USE FPC PLATE CLEANER TO REMOVE INK AND PROTECT THE IMAGE. It is not recommended as a roller wash for certain roller compositions since it can swell and soften those elastomers. For a bio-friendly roller wash, we recommend D & S Roller Wash QT.

D & S Bio-based Products are available from Graphic Chemical & Ink and Renaissance Graphic Arts.