Have you ever heard this term? What do you think is a siccative? A small tropical bird, a mode of conjugation? What is hidden behind this term? What is it used for ? And above all, how do you use it? Here is some clarification on the subject.
What is the definition of the word “dryer”?
It is an adjective that simply means “which activates the drying”. As for desiccation, it is the elimination of the humidity contained in a body, whatever it may be. Moisture can be removed from a gas, textile or soil naturally or even artificially. A siccative therefore dries more quickly and accelerates desiccation. Dryers can be oils, varnishes, or even drugs. Some medical products are driers in that they dry out and can cause faster healing. Siccatives are mainly adjuvants which, when added to inks, paints, oils or varnishes, accelerate setting, hardening and drying.
What is the use of a siccative?
A siccative can be used in DIY, especially in painting when you want to dry quickly. Since a siccative has the particularity of drying the colors with which they are mixed in a short time, so that they are used to pass tiles, objects, walls with the siccative. From a drying that can go up to several weeks, we can move on to a drying that is done in a few hours, thanks to a siccative. If you use certain oils like linseed oil, without a drying agent, it can take three to seven days to dry. Too long for a daily life where the pace is always faster. So if you plan to cover furniture, parquet, windows or even tool handles, consider using siccative.
How to use a drying agent?
Dryers are mainly found in DIY stores, whether independent or in supermarkets. You must use it very precisely and sparingly. It is best to follow the instructions noted on the products you use. It goes without saying that you must protect yourself with a mask and wash your hands well before and after use.
Is the drier toxic?
Some driers are. Previously, lead was widely used as a siccative, which is a heavy metal. Fertility problems or problems with fetuses due to driers have been observed. Many have been banned. Of course, do not handle driers with children. Their ingestion can have serious consequences. However, many innovations have emerged to eliminate this risk. Currently, most driers are incorporated into oils, paints or varnishes. Some oils such as linseed oil are still sold with separate driers: it’s up to you to integrate them and mix them with the oil.