440917

D-Limonene is a clear, colorless liquid known for its mobile properties and pleasant lemon-like odor. This information was provided by the National Toxicology Program in 1992. (4R)-limonene is an optically active form of limonene that has a (4R)-configuration. It acts as a plant metabolite and is one enantiomer of (4S)-limonene. Limonene is commonly found in cosmetic products due to its appealing fragrance. As the main odor component of citrus fruits, belonging to the Rutaceae family, D-limonene is widely used in food manufacturing and in some medicines. It serves as a flavoring agent to mask the bitter taste of alkaloids and is also employed in perfumery for its fragrant properties. Chemically, limonene is a colorless liquid aliphatic hydrocarbon, classified as a cyclic monoterpene. It is a major component in the volatile oil extracted from citrus fruit peels. The D-isomer of limonene, which is more commonly found in nature, is known for its fragrance resembling that of oranges and is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Additionally, D-limonene is utilized in chemical synthesis as a precursor to carvone and as a solvent in cleaning products based on renewable resources. The less common L-isomer, characterized by a piny, turpentine-like odor, is found in the edible parts of plants such as caraway, dill, and bergamot orange. The name "limonene" is derived from the Italian word "limone," meaning "lemon." Limonene is a chiral molecule, and biological sources typically produce only one enantiomer. The primary industrial source, citrus fruit, contains D-limonene ((+)-limonene), which is the (R)-enantiomer. Racemic limonene is known as dipentene. Commercially, D-Limonene is obtained from citrus fruits through methods like centrifugal separation or steam distillation.

First Aid

In case of exposure:

EYES: Check for contact lenses, flush eyes with water for 20-30 minutes, then seek medical help immediately.

SKIN: Wash affected skin with water and soap, remove contaminated clothing, and seek medical assistance promptly.

INHALATION: Leave contaminated area, breathe fresh air, call a physician, and provide respiratory protection. Seek medical help even if no symptoms occur.

INGESTION: Do not induce vomiting. If conscious, give water and seek medical advice. If unconscious, ensure open airway and seek immediate medical attention.

OTHER: Contact a physician for long-term health effects and medical monitoring recommendations based on exposure details (NTP, 1992).

National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem