Creosote vs. Carbolineum — What's the Difference?

Creosote has potent antiseptic and protective properties.

A preservative oil derived from coal tar, used for treating wood.

Subject to strict environmental regulations.

Less potent in antifungal properties than creosote.

A dark brown oil distilled from coal or wood tar, used as a wood preservative.

Features a matte finish and is less prone to leaching.

Known for its strong, pungent odor.

Offers protection against wood deterioration.

Creosote can be hazardous to health upon prolonged exposure.

Faces fewer restrictions compared to creosote.

Creosote is a category of carbonaceous chemicals formed by the distillation of various tars and pyrolysis of plant-derived material, such as wood or fossil fuel. They are typically used as preservatives or antiseptics.Some creosote types were used historically as a treatment for components of seagoing and outdoor wood structures to prevent rot (e.g., bridgework and railroad ties, see image).

Carbolineum is an oily, water-insoluble, flammable, dark brown mixture from coal tar components, smelling of tar. It contains among other things anthracene and phenol.

A colorless to yellowish oily liquid containing phenols and creosols, obtained by the destructive distillation of wood tar, especially from the wood of a beech, and formerly used as an expectorant in treating chronic bronchitis.

An oily, water-insoluble, flammable, dark brown coal tar mixture, formerly used to preserve wooden structures.

A yellowish to greenish-brown oily liquid containing phenols and creosols, obtained from coal tar and used as a wood preservative and formerly as a disinfectant. It can cause severe neurological disturbances if inhaled in strong concentrations.

A blackish residue formed, as on the inside of a flue, through condensation of volatile compounds released by incomplete combustion of wood or other fuel.

To treat or paint with coal-based creosote.

A pale yellow oily liquid, containing phenols and similar compounds, obtained by the destructive distillation of wood tar, once used medicinally.

A similar brown liquid obtained from coal tar used as a wood preservative.

(countable) The creosote bush.

To apply creosote.

Wood-tar oil; an oily antiseptic liquid, of a burning smoky taste, colorless when pure, but usually colored yellow or brown by impurity or exposure. It is a complex mixture of various phenols and their ethers, and is obtained by the distillation of wood tar, especially that of beechwood.

To saturate or impregnate with creosote, as timber, for the prevention of decay.

A colorless or yellowish oily liquid obtained by distillation of wood tar; used as an antiseptic

A dark oily liquid obtained by distillation of coal tar; used as a preservative for wood

Treat with creosote;

Creosote leaves a dark, oily finish, whereas carbolineum often results in a matte finish.

Due to its toxic properties and potential environmental impact, creosote is heavily regulated.

Carbolineum-treated wood usually has a matte finish.

Yes, carbolineum faces fewer restrictions and can be used in residential areas.

Creosote is distilled from coal or wood tar.

Creosote provides a dark, oily finish.

No, carbolineum is generally considered less effective, especially against fungi.

Protective clothing, gloves, and sometimes respirators should be used when applying these substances.

Carbolineum is used primarily for wood preservation in agricultural settings.

Creosote has higher antifungal properties compared to carbolineum.

Both have environmental impacts, but carbolineum is generally considered to have a lesser impact than creosote.

Treatment frequency can vary based on exposure and climatic conditions, typically every 5 to 10 years.

Creosote use is banned in many residential applications and in countries with strict environmental laws.

Yes, both products can pose health risks, particularly on direct contact, requiring safety measures.

No, due to its strong odor and toxicity, creosote is not suitable for indoor use.