Pimaric acid

Pimaric acid is a resin acid, a type of diterpene, that is found in the resin of various pine species. It is a primary component of the resinous substance known as rosin, which is used in a variety of industrial applications. Pimaric acid is also found in the bark of some species of conifer trees.

Chemical Structure

Pimaric acid is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C20H30O2. It is a member of the class of compounds known as diterpenoids, which are made up of four isoprene units. The structure of pimaric acid includes a cyclohexane ring, a cyclopentane ring, and a cyclopropane ring, all fused together.

Sources

Pimaric acid is found in the resin of various species of pine trees, including the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), the loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), and the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris). It is also found in the bark of some species of conifer trees, such as the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii).

Uses

Pimaric acid is used in the production of rosin, a resinous substance used in a variety of industrial applications, including the manufacture of varnish, soap, and paper. It is also used in the production of turpentine, a solvent used in the paint and varnish industry.

Health Effects

While pimaric acid is generally considered safe, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is not considered toxic, but it can cause allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to it.

See Also

• Resin acid
• Diterpene
• Rosin
• Pine