Terpineol

Terpineol is the name given to a group of monoterpenoid alcohols with the molecular formula C10H18O. The term commonly encompasses alpha-terpineol, beta-terpineol, and gamma-terpineol, among other isomers. These compounds share a cyclohexene-based skeleton bearing a hydroxyl group and an isopropenyl substituent, giving them alcohol functionality and distinctive aroma profiles that vary by isomer.

Occurrence and production: Terpineols occur naturally in many essential oils, notably pine oil, and are extracted from pine, lilac, citrus oils, and other plant sources. They can also be synthesized industrially through acid-catalyzed transformations of terpenes such as limonene or pinene derivatives, or via rearrangement of terpinyl esters.

Uses: Terpineol and its isomers are widely used as fragrance ingredients in perfumery to impart floral or fresh notes, and as flavoring agents in foods and beverages. They are also utilized as solvents and as intermediates in the production of other aroma chemicals. Some terpineol materials are incorporated into cosmetics and cleaning products for their scent.

Properties and safety: Terpineols are typically colorless to pale-yellow liquids with moderate volatility. They dissolve in organic solvents and are only sparingly soluble in water. Concentrated samples can be irritants to skin and eyes and they are flammable. As with many essential oil constituents, standard handling precautions should be followed to minimize exposure.

See also: monoterpenes, essential oils, alpha-terpineol, beta-terpineol, gamma-terpineol.