SoleChem

α-Limonene

CAS 138-86-3
EC 231-732-0
Formula C10H16
MW 136.23 g/mol
Flavors & Fragrances Personal Care & CosmeticsFood & NutritionPrinting & Packaging Flavoring & AcidulantCleaning & DegreasingSolvent & Carrier

Description

α-Limonene (CAS 138-86-3) is a naturally derived monocyclic monoterpene obtained primarily from citrus peel oils, commercially known under the names Nesol, Cinene, and Kautschin. It carries no E-code designation and is classified under HS code 29021990 for customs purposes.

In personal care formulations, α-Limonene functions as a fragrance component and skin-conditioning solvent, helping to dissolve and carry active ingredients into formulations. In industrial cleaning and printing applications, its solvency power against oils, resins, and adhesives makes it a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived solvents. Food-grade material is used as a flavoring agent to impart citrus character to finished products.

α-Liponene is available in food-grade (FCC-compliant) and cosmetic-grade specifications, with REACH registration applicable for EU supply. Procurement quantities typically range from drums to IBC and bulk tanker formats. Buyers should confirm compliance with IFRA guidelines when sourcing for fragrance applications.

Physical Properties

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

Safety & Handling (Learn More)

Danger GHS02 GHS07 GHS09 GHS08
H
H226H304H315H317H319H400H410
P
P210P233P240P241P242P243P261P264P272P273P280P321P331P391P405P501P264+P265P301+P316P302+P352P332+P317P333+P317P337+P317P362+P364P370+P378P403+P235P303+P361+P353P305+P351+P338

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code 29021990
UN Number 2052
ADR Class 3
Packing Group III
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 2

Other Names

1-Methyl-4-Prop-1-En-2-YlcyclohexeneDipentene(±)-limonenelimonene, (+)-(+/-)-limoneneNesolCineneD-CINENE

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Raw Materials

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