turpentine

Turpentine is a volatile essential oil derived from the resin of pine trees. It is produced by steam distillation of oleoresin tapped from living pines, typically of the genus Pinus. The distillation yields the volatile oil, commonly known as turpentine or spirits of turpentine, and a solid residue called rosin.

The oil of turpentine is composed mainly of monoterpenes, with alpha-pinene and beta-pinene as the predominant constituents, along with smaller amounts of camphene, limonene, terpinene, and related compounds. The exact composition varies with pine species and production methods. Turpentine is commonly sold as the distilled oil, while rosin is sold separately for use in adhesives, paper sizing, and other applications.

Uses of turpentine include as a solvent for paints, varnishes, and waxes; as a cleaning and degreasing agent; and as a chemical feedstock for the synthesis of other terpenes and derivatives. Rosin, the coproduct, is widely used in inks, adhesives, and as a component in certain paper and varnish formulations.

Safety and environmental considerations are important: turpentine is highly flammable and can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory system. It should be used with good ventilation, and stored in tightly closed containers away from heat. Prolonged exposure or ingestion can be hazardous. Turpentine is derived from renewable pine resources, and responsible forestry practices influence its sustainability. In some contexts, petroleum-based solvents or citrus- or terpene-based substitutes are used as alternatives.