8.3.10.2 Mineral Oil
Mineral oil or paraffin oil is often used at moderate temperatures above the range
of water. Mineral oil is relatively inexpensive. At lower temperatures mineral oil is
quite viscous and control may be poor. At higher temperatures vapor emission
becomes significant. The vapors may be dangerous and use of a fume hood is
highly recommended. As with most oils mineral oil will expand as temperature
increases so be careful not to fill the bath too full that it overflows when heated.
The viscosity and thermal characteristics of mineral oil is poorer than water so
temperature stability will not be as good. Mineral oil has very low electrical
conductivity. Use caution with mineral oil since it is flammable and may also
cause serious injury if inhaled or ingested.