Flavors & Fragrances
REACH
Limonene
CAS Number
138-86-3
EC Number
231-732-0
What is Limonene?
Limonene (CAS 138-86-3), also sold as dipentene in its racemic form, is a naturally derived terpene solvent and fragrance ingredient sourced primarily from citrus peel oils.
Where is Limonene used?
- Cleaning and degreasing: bio-based alternative to petroleum solvents
- Industrial cleaning and printing: cuts through inks, adhesives and greases on press equipment and packaging lines
- Food: flavoring agent delivering citrus character in beverages, confectionery and baked goods
- Personal care: fragrance blends, shampoos and skin cleansers
- Fragrance concentrates: carrier solvent improving dispersion of active ingredients
Good to know: Both the d-limonene and racemic dipentene forms are commercially stocked. Purity levels typically range from 95% to 99%+ depending on grade.
Commercial specifications
- Clear mobile liquid in drum and IBC quantities, with bulk tanker options
Other Names (Synonyms)
dipentene|4-isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene|1,8-p-menthadiene|1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene|(+/-)-1-Methyl-4-(1-methylvinyl)cyclohexene|(+-)-(RS)-limonene|1-methyl-4-prop-1-en-2-ylcyclohexene|RefChem:1055817
What are the physical properties of Limonene?
Melting Point -95.5 °C
Boiling Point 175.5-176.5 °C @ Press: 763 Torr
Density 0.8402 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20.85 °C
Flash Point 119 °F
Appearance colourless or light yellow liquid
Color Clear colorless to pale yellow
Odor Pleasant, pine-like; lemon-like.
Form Liquid
Water Solubility <1 g/100mL
Vapor Pressure <3 mm Hg ( 14.4 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.473(lit.)
Log P 4.57
How is Limonene classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS09· Environmental Hazard GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H226 Flammable liquid and vapor
H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways
H315 Causes skin irritation
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Limonene?
HS Code 29021990
UN Number 2052
ADR Class 3
Packing Group III
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 2