Pine oil is an essential oil obtained by the steam distillation of stumps, needles, twigs and cones from a variety of species of pine, particularly Pinus sylvestris. As of 1995, synthetic pine oil was the "biggest single turpentine derivative. Synthetic pine oils accounted for 90% of sales as of 2000.
In alternative medicine, it is said to be used in aromatherapy, as a scent in bath oils or more commonly as a cleaning product, and as a lubricant in small and expensive clockwork instruments. It may also be used varyingly as a disinfectant, sanitizer, mircobicide / microbistat, virucide, insecticide, and a massage oil. It is also used as an effective organic herbicide where its action is to modify the waxy cuticle of plants, resulting in desiccation.
Parameter | Value |
---|---|
Chemical formula |
C6H6O |
Molar mass |
94.11 g·mol−1 |
Appearance |
Transparent crystalline solid |
Odor |
Sweet and tarry |
Density |
1.07 g/cm3 |
Melting point |
40.5 °C (104.9 °F; 313.6 K) |
Boiling point |
181.7 °C (359.1 °F; 454.8 K) |
Solubility in water |
8.3 g/100 mL (20 °C) |
Vapor pressure |
0.4 mmHg (20 °C) |
Acidity (pKa) |
9.95 (in water) |
UV-vis (λmax) |
270.75 nm |
Dipole moment |
1.224 D |