ABSTRACT
Limonene is actually a monoterpene, built up from two isoprene units, though that isn’t how it is put together in plants. However, pyrolysis of limonene does afford isoprene. Limonene is used to make all sorts of things from floor waxes to perfumes. As a liquid hydrocarbon, it is good at dissolving non-polar molecule, so it is a non-toxic ‘green’ solvent, often used for degreasing, and has the advantage of being biodegradable and being sourced from the waste products of the citrus juicing industry. It’s also used to make polymers and adhesives, and it is found in insecticides, like the Orange Guard products.
