d-Limonene

Sinónimos: (R)-(+)-Limonene, (R)-p-Mentha-1,8-diene, (+)-Limonene, (R)-1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)cyclohexene, (R)-4-Isopropenyl-1-methyl-1-cyclohexene, Citrus Terpene, d-Limonene

d-Limonene is a monocyclic monoterpene hydrocarbon and the major constituent of citrus peel oils, typically comprising 90–96% of cold-pressed orange oil. It occurs naturally in over 300 plants, with highest concentrations in the Rutaceae family, such as orange (Citrus sinensis), lemon (Citrus limon), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), and mandarin (Citrus reticulata). In traditional practices, citrus peel oils have been used for their aromatic and preservative properties, and d-limonene itself has a long history as a flavor and fragrance ingredient.

Structurally, d-limonene is the (R)-(+)-enantiomer of limonene, a chiral cyclohexene derivative with an exocyclic double bond. Its distinctive citrus odor and high volatility make it a key component in flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound is chemically reactive, undergoing epoxidation, hydrogenation, and isomerization, which allows for the production of derivatives such as limonene oxide and p-cymene. Its lipophilic nature enables miscibility with nonpolar solvents and essential oils, while its low water solubility limits direct aqueous applications but makes it suitable for solvent-based systems.

Commercial d-Limonene is available in several grades, with purity typically ≥95% (GC) and often ≥97% for high-purity applications. It is widely used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages, a fragrance in cosmetics and household products, and as a renewable solvent in industrial and electronics cleaning. In the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, d-limonene serves as a functional excipient, a penetration enhancer for transdermal formulations, and a research chemical for studying terpene metabolism. Its GRAS status (FDA 21 CFR 182.60) and favorable safety profile support its use in these applications.

Function & Mechanism

• Flavor and fragrance: Provides characteristic citrus aroma and taste; used in food and beverage flavorings, perfumes, and aromatherapy products.
• Solvent activity: Acts as a nonpolar solvent for greases, oils, and resins; effective in industrial degreasers and adhesive removers.
• Penetration enhancement: Enhances transdermal absorption of drugs by disrupting stratum corneum lipid packing.
• Antimicrobial properties: Exhibits broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and fungi, contributing to preservative effects in some formulations.
• Chemical intermediate: Serves as a starting material for the synthesis of terpene resins, carvone, and other specialty chemicals.

Source & Standardization

• Source: Citrus peel oils (e.g., orange, lemon, grapefruit) from cold-press or steam distillation.
• Extraction: Fractional distillation of citrus essential oils, followed by purification to isolate the d-enantiomer.
• Standardization: ≥95% (GC) for standard grade; ≥97% for high-purity grade. Food grade complies with FCC and EU regulations.
• Forms: Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid.
• Aplicaciones: Flavor and fragrance, industrial cleaning, pharmaceutical excipients, agrochemicals, and research.

Quality Specifications (QC Tests)

Bulk Supply & Documentation

• Monthly capacity: 50 metric tons
• Plazo de entrega: 3-5 días laborables (artículos en stock)
• Documentación: Certificado de análisis (COA), ficha de datos de seguridad (MSDS) y ficha técnica del producto (TDS) disponibles previa solicitud
• Embalaje: 25 kg HDPE drums, 180 kg steel drums; custom packaging available

Preguntas frecuentes

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

Our MOQ for d-Limonene is 25 kg, packaged in a single drum. For larger orders, we offer competitive pricing on 180 kg drums and full container loads.

What is the delivery time?

For stock items, delivery is typically 3-5 business days from order confirmation. We maintain ample inventory to ensure prompt shipment.

Do you provide samples and COA?

Yes, we provide free samples (typically 100-200 g) for evaluation. A COA is available for each batch and can be requested at any time. Samples are usually dispatched within 1-2 days.

Contact & Ordering Information

• Company: LyvBio Co., Ltd.
• Address: Room 5-0203, Courtyard 205, Lianhu District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
• Email: info@lyvbio.com
• Phone: +86-29-65816888

send us your specification for a quotation.