Could anyone clarify if you need to wear a paint mask if you are using an airbrush with Tamiya Acrylic paint mixed with X20a thinners?

The paint is water based so should be OK but the thinners I am not so sure about ... if anyone has any ideas on this it would be much appreciated.

D

Hi David, I believe that the thinners are about 35% isopropyl alchohol (or similar); material safety data sheets for that individual substance recommend wearing an organic vapour mask and suggest that it is irritating to respiratory system, can cause drowsiness and intoxication, and at high levels can affect the nervous system.

Isopropyl Alcohol data sheet

Spraying it is of course an efficient way to produce vapours and you're sitting close to the source as you work, so personally I crack the garage door open and wear a paint mask. The mask is good for scaring the kids when I come back in to the house as well...

Never EVER think that any aerosolized material is "safe"...I find a lot of people think that because a paint is water based or water soluable that this means harmless and non toxic. WRONG. VERY VERY WRONG. Wear a spray mask! Always!

Hi David,

The last thing you want is your lungs eventually turning
panzer gray or olive drab!

Always wear a mask and spray in a well ventilated area.

Cheers,
Joe

Matthew,

Many thanks for the information, very much appreciated, looks like I will be investing in a mask this week!

D

Thank you for your help, it's appreciated.

D

Hi Joe,

Looks like a mask is coming going to be purchased, the last thing I want is my lungs turning grey.

Thanks for the advice.

D