Flavors & Fragrances
REACH
DL-Camphor
CAS Number
21368-68-3
EC Number
244-350-4
FEMA Number
FEMA 4513
What is DL-Camphor?
DL-Camphor (CAS 21368-68-3) is the racemic synthetic form of camphor, produced via chemical synthesis rather than natural extraction.
Where is DL-Camphor used?
- Pharmaceuticals: topical analgesic and counterirritant preparations such as medicated balms and liniments
- Personal care: cooling and masking agent in lip balms, skin creams, and hair tonics
- Fragrance: sharp, medicinal note in perfumery bases and functional cosmetic formulations
- Coatings: plasticizer solvent in cellulose nitrate lacquers and specialty coatings, particularly nail care product manufacturing
- It functions as a topical active, fragrance component, and processing solvent in finished formulations.
Good to know: Known commercially simply as Camphor, it is the standard industrial grade. Handled according to strict safety protocols due to its volatile nature and characteristic odor.
Commercial specifications
- Purity levels of 96% and above are typical for industrial supply.
Other Names (Synonyms)
Camphor|1,7,7-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one
What are the physical properties of DL-Camphor?
Melting Point 179 °C
Boiling Point 204 °C
Density 0.992 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point 148 °F
Vapor Pressure 4 mm Hg ( 70 °C)
Refractive Index 1.5462 (estimate)
Log P 2.13
How is DL-Camphor classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H318 Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H401 Toxic to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]
H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]
H228 Flammable solid [Danger Flammable solids]
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to DL-Camphor?
HS Code 29142910
UN Number 2717
ADR Class 4.1
Packing Group III
WGK (Germany) 1