SOLVENT N.3

What is SOLVENT N.3 and why choose it

SOLVENT N.3 (Thinner No.3) by International Náutica is a dedicated thinner for antifouling products, bottom coatings and other special marine paints. It is also suitable for cleaning application equipment associated with these coatings (not suitable for VC® products). With controlled solvent strength, a defined evaporation rate and full compatibility with most International antifoulings, it helps obtain the correct application viscosity while ensuring clean, residue-free tools and surfaces.

Main features

• Specific thinner for antifoulings and bottom coatings – Formulated for use with International antifouling ranges and special bottom paints.
• Also for equipment cleaning – Effective for cleaning application equipment used with compatible coatings.
• High-purity solvent blend – Volume solids 0% and VOC content of 875 g/l as supplied.
• Defined density – Specific gravity of 0.875 for predictable dilution ratios.
• Good storage stability – Typical shelf life of 3 years when stored correctly.
• Available in convenient pack sizes – 500 ml and 1 l units for small repairs or larger projects.
• Controlled application – Recommended wipe-down method helps avoid re-depositing contaminants on the surface.
• Supports professional, industrial and consumer use – When all safety and handling instructions are followed.

Technical specifications

• Product type: Antifouling thinner / thinners & solvents
• Product code / colour: YTA085
• Appearance: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Solvent
• Specific gravity: 0.875 g/cm³ (approx.)
• Volume solids: 0%
• VOC (as supplied): 875 g/l
• Boiling point (initial): 146°C (approx.)
• Flash point: 35°C (closed cup, Pensky–Martens)
• Viscosity: approx. 1 mm²/s (kinematic, at room temperature and at 40°C)
• Solubility in water: Not soluble in cold water
• Packaging sizes: 500 ml and 1 l
• Typical shelf life: 3 years (if stored in unopened containers under recommended conditions)
• Physical hazards (CLP): Flammable liquid, Category 3 (H226)
• Health hazards (CLP): Aspiration hazard, Category 1 (H304); STOT SE Category 3 – respiratory irritation and narcotic effects (H335, H336)
• Environmental hazards (CLP): Aquatic chronic, Category 2 (H411)

Applications and use cases

Intended uses

• Thinning antifouling coatings, bottom paints and selected special marine coatings from International.
• Cleaning application equipment used with these coatings.

Compatibility

• Compatible with: All International antifoulings, except VC® products.
• Not suitable for: VC® products.

Application hints

• Surface wipe-down: When using SOLVENT N.3 to wipe down surfaces before painting, turn the cloth frequently to avoid re-applying residues.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during use. Use only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
• Restrictions: The manufacturer indicates no special restrictions when the product is used as directed.

Storage and handling

• Avoid exposure to air and extremes of temperature.
• For full shelf life, keep containers firmly closed between uses.
• Recommended storage temperature: between 5°C and 35°C.
• Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight.
• Store locked up and away from oxidizing materials and sources of ignition.

FAQ – SOLVENT N.3

1. What is SOLVENT N.3 used for?

   SOLVENT N.3 is used to thin antifoulings, bottom coatings and other special marine paints from International, and to clean application equipment used with these coatings (except VC® products).

2. Can I use SOLVENT N.3 with any antifouling?

   It is compatible with all International antifoulings except VC® products. It should not be used with VC® antifouling systems.

3. How should I use it for surface preparation?

   For wipe-down, apply SOLVENT N.3 with a clean cloth and turn the cloth frequently so that contaminants are removed rather than re-deposited on the surface.

4. What are the storage conditions?

   Store in tightly closed, original containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area between 5°C and 35°C, away from direct sunlight, heat, sparks, open flames and oxidizing agents.

5. Is SOLVENT N.3 flammable?

   Yes. It is classified as a flammable liquid, Category 3, with a flash point of 35°C. Keep away from ignition sources and use only in well-ventilated areas.

6. Can it be harmful if inhaled or swallowed?

   Inhalation may cause respiratory irritation, drowsiness or dizziness and central nervous system depression. If swallowed, it may be fatal if it enters the airways (aspiration hazard).

7. Does SOLVENT N.3 pose environmental risks?

   Yes. It is toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Avoid release to the environment and do not allow it to enter drains or watercourses.

8. What pack sizes are available?

   The product is available in 500 ml and 1 l units.

9. What is the typical shelf life?

   When correctly stored in unopened containers, the typical shelf life is 3 years.

10. Is it suitable for consumer as well as professional use?

    The identified uses include professional, industrial and consumer use, provided all safety, handling and disposal instructions are followed.

Section 14 – Transport information

• UN number / ID number: UN1263
• UN proper shipping name: PAINT RELATED MATERIAL
• Transport hazard class: 3 (flammable liquid)
• Packing group: III
• Environmental hazards: Classified as hazardous to the environment; marine pollutant components include solvent naphtha (petroleum), light arom., and 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene.
• ADR/RID additional data: Tunnel code D/E. The environmentally hazardous substance mark is not required for packages ≤5 l or ≤5 kg.
• IMDG additional data: Emergency schedules F-E, S-E. The marine pollutant mark is not required for packages ≤5 l or ≤5 kg.
• IATA additional data: The environmentally hazardous substance mark may appear if required by other transport regulations.
• Special precautions for user: Transport within user’s premises only in closed, upright and secure containers. Ensure that personnel transporting the product know what to do in case of accident or spillage.
• Transport in bulk according to IMO instruments: Not applicable.

Section 8 – Personal protective measures

Engineering controls and hygiene

• Use only with adequate ventilation and, where necessary, local exhaust ventilation or process enclosures.
• Use explosion-proof ventilation and electrical equipment and take precautions against electrostatic discharges.
• Wash hands, forearms and face thoroughly after handling chemical products and before eating, drinking or smoking.
• Remove contaminated clothing and protective equipment before entering eating areas; wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
• Ensure that eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the work area.

Eye and face protection

• Wear safety eyewear complying with an approved standard when there is a risk of exposure to splashes, mists, gases or dusts.
• Where contact is possible, safety glasses with side shields are recommended unless a higher level of protection is indicated by risk assessment.

Hand protection

• Use chemical-resistant, impervious gloves complying with an approved standard whenever handling the product, if required by risk assessment.
• For prolonged or frequently repeated contact, gloves with protection class 6 (breakthrough time > 480 minutes, EN374) are recommended. Recommended materials: Viton® or nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.38 mm.
• For brief contact, gloves with protection class 2 or higher (breakthrough time > 30 minutes, EN374) are recommended. Recommended material: nitrile, thickness ≥ 0.12 mm.
• Replace gloves regularly and immediately if any signs of damage or degradation appear.

Skin and body protection

• Select protective clothing based on the task being performed and associated risks, and have it approved by a specialist before use.
• When there is a risk of ignition from static electricity, wear antistatic protective clothing, including antistatic overalls, boots and gloves (see EN 1149 for requirements).
• Use appropriate footwear and any additional skin protection measures as required by the risk assessment.

Respiratory protection

• Based on the identified hazards and potential exposure, select a respirator that meets the appropriate standard or certification.
• Wear a respirator conforming to EN140 with a type A/P2 filter or better when adequate ventilation cannot be ensured.
• During operations such as dry sanding, flame cutting or welding of dry paint films, provide local exhaust ventilation or use suitable respiratory protection, with wet sanding preferred whenever possible.

Environmental exposure controls

• Check emissions from ventilation systems and process equipment to ensure compliance with environmental protection legislation.
• Use fume scrubbers, filters or engineering modifications where necessary to reduce emissions to acceptable levels.