Terpene dimer compositions and related methods of manufacture

Abstract

Terpene dimer compositions are provided which dry into a hard, tack free film upon exposure to air. The compositions include a terpene dimer having the molecular formula C.sub.20 H.sub.32 and contain at least one double bond. The terpene dimer is derived from a naturally occurring monoterpene, or mixtures thereof, having the molecular formula C.sub.10 H.sub.16. In an another embodiment the compositions, in addition to the terpene dimer, include isomers of the monoterpenes. The compositions are substantially free of higher terpene oligomers having molecular formulas greater than C.sub.20 H.sub.32. Processes for making the terpene dimer compositions are also provided. Advantageous utilization of these compositions is as a diluent, solvent or component in coating, adhesive, alkyd or ink formulations, as an environmentally safe non-toxic material.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.