Britannica Sources used in this answer

How is alpha-pinene used in turpentine, paints, and varnishes?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Isoprenoid Camphor, an isoprenoid compound classified as a terpenoid ketone, is used in incense and certain medicinal compounds. It is a natural substance obtained from the camphor laurel (*Cinnamomum camphora*), a species of evergreen.

$α$ -Pinene is a primary component of turpentine, a substance that serves as a natural source for the compound. In the context of paints and varnishes, $α$ -pinene is utilized for two main reasons:12

Solvent Properties: It functions as an effective solvent, which is essential for the application and consistency of coating materials.2
Film Formation: It can be converted through oxidation into a polymeric resinous film, which contributes to the protective and aesthetic qualities of the coating.2

While $α$ -pinene is a major component of turpentine, it is important to note that rosin—the nonvolatile residue left after turpentine is isolated—is also used in the production of varnishes and other coating materials.3