Turpentine Oil
Turpentine Oil is a volatile essential oil distilled from the resin of pine trees (primarily Pinus species). It is a colorless to pale yellow fluid with a strong, distinctive odor, composed mainly of terpenes such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. Traditionally used as a solvent and medicinal agent, turpentine oil has broad applications across industrial, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors. Its natural origin and unique chemical profile also make it valuable in fragrance, flavoring, and organic synthesis.
Primary Uses
Paints and Coatings Industry:
Used as a solvent and thinner in oil-based paints, varnishes, lacquers, and wood stains.
Enhances spreadability and penetration of coatings on wooden surfaces.
Pharmaceutical Industry:
Applied topically as a counterirritant and rubefacient in liniments, ointments, and balms for muscle pain and rheumatism.
Utilized in chest rubs and steam inhalations for its expectorant and decongestant properties in respiratory therapy.
Historically used as a vermifuge (anti-parasitic), though now rarely employed internally due to toxicity concerns.
Adhesives and Sealants:
Acts as a solvent or diluent in adhesive formulations and sealant systems.
Fragrance & Flavors Industry:
Functions as a precursor in the synthesis of fragrance chemicals like camphor, linalool, and synthetic pine scents.
Limited use as a flavoring agent in traditional herbal preparations and bitters (strictly regulated).
Secondary Uses
Cleaning and Degreasing:
Used as a natural degreaser and cleaning solvent for machinery, tools, and brush cleaning.
Agriculture:
Occasionally incorporated into natural pesticide formulations and livestock repellents for its insecticidal and antimicrobial properties.
Rubber and Plastics:
Utilized in the production of resins and synthetic rubber, particularly for modifying tack and flexibility.
Textiles and Leather:
Employed in leather finishing formulations and textile water-proofing compounds.
Traditional and Folk Medicine:
Applied in folk remedies for treating cuts, infections, and even internal ailments (not recommended today due to safety concerns).
Chemical Industry:
Serves as a raw material in the manufacture of synthetic aroma chemicals, resins, and polymers.
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Oil of turpentine (mainly composed of α-pinene and β-pinene)
Common/Trade Name: Turpentine Oil
CAS Number: 8006-64-2
HS Code: 3805.10.00
Synonyms: Spirit of turpentine, Gum turpentine, Oil of turpentine
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Clear, mobile liquid
Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; strong pine-like odor
Boiling Point: 155–170 °C
Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with alcohol, ether, chloroform
Density: ~0.86 g/cm³
Flash Point: ~35 °C (flammable)
Main Components: α-Pinene, β-Pinene, Camphene, Limonene
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
Flammable liquid (Category 3)
Harmful if inhaled or swallowed
Causes skin irritation and may cause allergic skin reactions
Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Toxicity: Moderate; toxic if ingested in large quantities
Exposure Limits:
OSHA PEL: 100 ppm (as turpentine vapor)
ACGIH TLV: 20 ppm (TWA)
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames
Container Type: Metal drums or HDPE containers with inner lining
Shelf Life: 12–18 months under proper storage conditions
Handling Precautions: Keep away from ignition sources; use explosion-proof equipment
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Listed in US Pharmacopeia (USP) and British Pharmacopeia (BP) for medicinal-grade products
REACH and TSCA registered for industrial and commercial use
Subject to restrictions in cosmetics and ingestible formulations due to potential toxicity
Complies with OSHA, GHS, and DOT regulations for flammable liquids
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Biodegradable under environmental conditions
Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms; avoid release into waterways
Bioaccumulation: Low to moderate potential
PPE Required: Gloves, safety goggles, flame-resistant clothing, and respiratory protection in high-exposure environments
Handling Guidelines: Ensure proper ventilation; avoid contact with skin and eyes
Storage Measures: Ground containers; use spark-proof tools
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation continues
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapor
Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚; water spray may be ineffective directly on flames
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, irritating smoke, and vapors