Ölbasis

Ölbasis is a term used to describe a base composed primarily of oil that serves as the binding medium or carrier in various oil-based products. In art and coatings, the Ölbasis refers to drying or non-drying oils that form a film through oxidation, often combined with resins or dryers to adjust hardness, gloss, and drying time. Common drying oils include linseed oil, tung oil, and poppyseed oil; blends and additives are used to tailor performance for specific applications.

In painting and varnishing, the Ölbasis influences pigment dispersion, film formation, and aging characteristics. The oil-based film cures gradually as triglycerides react with air, producing a durable, flexible layer. The choice of Ölbasis affects color saturation, yellowing tendency, smell, and cleanability with solvents. In cosmetic formulations, the term denotes the oil phase that acts as an emollient and carrier for active ingredients, contributing to texture, spreadability, and skin feel.

Chemically, Ölbasis materials are typically triglycerides derived from plant or animal fats. Drying oils undergo autoxidation, forming a cross-linked network that yields a solid film. Non-drying oils lack this rapid curing and are used where flexibility or surface feel is prioritized. The performance of an Ölbasis product depends on saturation, viscosity, drying behavior, and compatibility with pigments, resins, or additives.

Advantages of an Ölbasis include strong adhesion, high pigment load capacity, and durable films. Disadvantages can include longer curing times, susceptibility to yellowing, and higher volatile organic compound emissions compared to some water-based systems. Alternatives include water-based emulsions, alcohol or solvent-based systems, and hybrid formulations.

See also: oil paint, drying oil, linseed oil, varnish, cosmetic oil bases.