Overview
EN ISO 150:2018 (ISO 150:2018) specifies requirements and test methods for raw, refined and boiled linseed oil used in paints and varnishes. Prepared by ISO/TC 35 and adopted by CEN as EN ISO 150:2018, this third edition (2018) updates sampling, test procedures and fatty acid composition references to reflect modern paint‑grade linseed oil quality control practices.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and definitions: Clear definitions for raw linseed oil, acid‑refined, alkali‑refined and boiled linseed oil, and the phenomenon termed a break (separation of mucilaginous matter).
- Required characteristics: Specified limits for key parameters (examples from the standard):
- Density (typical ranges ~0.924–0.931 g/ml for most grades; boiled oil range specified separately).
- Gardner colour maxima: raw 13, alkali‑refined 4, acid‑refined 6 (colour after heating may be agreed between parties).
- Test methods and measurements: Normative references and test procedures are included or referenced, covering:
- Density (ISO 2811‑1 pycnometer method or ISO 2811‑3 oscillation method)
- Acid value (ISO 660), saponification value (ISO 3681), iodine value (ISO 3961)
- Water content by Karl Fischer (ISO 8534), refractive index (ISO 6320 / ISO 5661)
- Fatty acid composition by gas chromatography in accordance with ISO 12966 (all parts)
- Colour estimation using the Gardner scale (ISO 4630)
- Phosphoric acid test (PAT) for raw linseed oil and procedures for assessing break in alkali‑refined oils
- Sampling and sample preparation: Sampling is referenced to ISO 5555 and preparation to ISO 661 to ensure representative test specimens.
- Reporting: Requirements for test reports and expression of results are specified.
Applications and users
EN ISO 150:2018 is used by:
- Paint, varnish and coatings manufacturers to specify and verify binder quality and batch acceptance.
- Raw material suppliers and merchants for product specification, labelling and trade conformity.
- Quality control and analytical laboratories conducting standardized testing for density, colour, acid/iodine/saponification values and fatty acid profiles.
- Procurement and regulatory teams ensuring materials meet contractual or market standards.
Practical uses include incoming material inspection, formulation control, troubleshooting (e.g., detecting “break”), and comparative quality assessments.
Related standards (selected)
Standards referenced within EN ISO 150:2018 that are commonly used together:
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