Limonén

Limonén, also known as limonene, is a colorless, flammable liquid hydrocarbon that belongs to the class of monoterpenes. It exists in two optical isomers, D- (or R-) limonene and L- (or S-) limonene, which have distinct odors: D-limonene has a citrusy scent, while L-limonene is more pine- or turpentine-like. It is widely used in fragrance and flavor applications.

Natural occurrence and production: Limonene is one of the most abundant compounds in citrus peel essential oils, particularly orange, lemon, and lime oils. Industrially, it is produced by cold-pressing or steam distillation of citrus peels and is often recovered as a byproduct of the citrus juice industry.

Uses: It serves as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and cleaning products, a flavor additive in foods, and a solvent for coatings, cleaners, and degreasers. As a renewable solvent, limonene is sometimes promoted as a greener alternative to petroleum-based solvents.

Safety and environmental notes: Limonene is flammable and can irritate skin and eyes; some individuals may develop allergic sensitization on exposure. It oxidizes in air to form peroxides and other products that can be irritants. It is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC) and a potential contributor to atmospheric ozone formation; it is biodegradable and, at high concentrations, may be toxic to aquatic organisms.