Will Mineral Spirits Spontaneously Combust

The mineral spirits solvent component can certainly ignite when exposed to an ignition source, but it does not self-heat. It is the linseed oil component that is responsible for causing the spontaneous combustion to occur.

Can mineral spirits explode?

Vapor may travel to ignition source and flashback. Vapors will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas. Run-off to sewer may create a fire or explosion hazard. Heated containers may rupture, explode, or be thrown into the air.

Are mineral spirits flammable after they dry?

Paint thinner, boiled linseed oil, mineral spirits — all commonly used products — are flammable under the right conditions. Wiping off that thinner onto some rags and throwing them in a pile at the end of the day won’t immediately start a fire, but in a few hours there will be trouble.