Camphor
2-Bornanone, Gum Camphor, Synthetic Camphor Powder.
- CAS
- 76-22-2
- EC
- 200-945-0
- Sectors
- Pharma & Healthcare, Personal Care & Cosmetics
Camphor (CAS 76-22-2) is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone supplied as a colorless solid with a penetrating, characteristic odor, available as synthetic material at 96% or higher or as natural powder and translucent crystals, used in topical analgesics, balms, ointments and as a fragrance in soaps and perfumes. This USP/BP Grade material is widely used in the healthcare sector for its topical analgesic and anesthetic properties. It exhibits excellent solubility in alcohols and oils, making it a versatile ingredient for balms, ointments, and liniments. In industrial sectors, it serves as a plasticizer for nitrocellulose and a traditional moth repellent. Its sublimating properties allow it to release active vapors consistently, providing long-lasting fragrance and protective benefits.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C10H16O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 152.23 g/mol |
| Appearance | Camphor is a colorless glassy solid. Penetrating, characteristic odor. |
| Form | neat |
| Color | White or Colorless |
| Odor | at 10.00 % in dipropylene glycol. camphoreous |
| Melting point | 179 °C |
| Boiling point | 204 °C |
| Density | 0.992 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Water solubility | 0.12 g/100 mL (25 °C) |
| Flash point | 148 °F |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Flammable, Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29142910 |
| Grades available | Pharma Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Camphor
Applications
- Topical Pharmaceuticals: Incorporated into rubs and balms to provide relief from muscle pain, itching, and respiratory congestion.
- Fragrance & Flavor: Used in the production of soaps, perfumes, and industrial deodorizers for its clean, medicinal scent.
- Plastic & Polymer Processing: Functions as a specialized plasticizer in the manufacturing of celluloid and other nitrocellulose-based materials.
Safety & Risks
Classified as a Flammable Solid (Category 2) and Acute Toxic (Oral). It is a central nervous system stimulant if ingested. Use Spark-proof Tools, Safety Goggles, and Protective Gloves.
Packaging
Packaged in 25 kg Cartons, 50 kg Drums, or 1 kg Sealed Bags for specialized laboratory and pharmaceutical compounding.