C10H16O
Brief Overview:
Camphor exists as a colorless or white powder that is soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol and benzene. In the past, it was extracted from the timber of large trees within the tropical region such as the Cinnamomum Camphora. However, production of Camphor today is mainly through the distillation of Turpentine. It is widely used as a cooking ingredient in India due to its aromatic fragrance.
Manufacturing Processes:
Synthetic production of Camphor begins with the distillation of Turpentine
where α-Pinene is produced and isomerized. The isomerized α-Pinene is then processed through Esterification and Saponification to produce Iso-Borneol. Subsequently, through the oxidation of Iso-Borneol, Synthetic Camphor is produced.
Industrial Applications
Used in Plastic Manufacturing of plastics such as PVC. Plasticizer in Paints and nitrocellulose.
Medical Applications
Used in manufacturing of cough medications and ear drops as well as pharmaceutical products that alleviate pain and itching conditions.