Fish Oils. VI. The Structure and Properties of Pilchard Oil Films
British Columbia pilchard oil dries more rapidly than linseed oil and yields substantial protective films. The films are softer and more tacky than those from linseed oil. They are more permeable to moisture, and show a tendency to become dull and to bloom. These defects can partly be corrected by the use of the proper drier combinations and incorporation of gums but they can be entirely eliminated only by steam distillation of the polymerized oil at high temperatures. The product of this treatment yields films superior to those of other drying oils in hardness, gloss, lower permeability and freedom from yellowing and blooming. The structure and properties of the films are discussed. The nature and distribution of the non-drying components in the film are described. Methods for estimating permeability and moisture absorption of films given and the influence of moisture as the primary agency in film disintegration is emphasized. The nature of yellowing, cissing and blooming, and methods for correcting these defects in pilchard oil are also discussed.