It is a member of the spurge Family, and can also be known as China Wood Oil or Nut Oil. The seeds found in the centre of the tung fruit contain more than 50% Tung Oil, which is available when the seeds are ground and pressed. The oil is amber coloured, and contains a high proportion of eleostearic acid.
Where can I buy tung oil in the UK?
Pure Tung Oil This bottle of pure tung oil has just arrived through the post from tungoil.co.uk. I’m keen to compare the finish of tung oil on spoons with that of linseed oil, grape seed oil or walnut oil.
How do you use tung oil?
Apply a thick coat of tung oil to the stock and rub it in with your fingers for a few minutes, until you feel the oil start to soak in. Wait for a few hours, then apply a lighter coat in the same manner. Allow a few more hours for the oil to dry.
When was tung oil invented?
Tung oil, also termed China wood oil, was known outside China about 1760. It was first introduced into the United States in 1896, into Germany in 1897, and soon afterwards into England. Little notice of it was taken commercially in England until after the outbreak of War, when specil water-resisting varnishes were required for aeroplane work.