Sierra Leone copal

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Description

A medium-hard variety of copal resin obtained from the Copaifera guibourtiana tree native to the British colony of Sierra Leone in Africa. Sierra Leone copal is a pale yellow uniform resin that has been used in varnishes.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Copaifera guibourtiana; copal de Sierra Leona (Esp.)

FTIR

MFA- Copal, Sierra Leone.jpg


Other Properties

Slightly soluble in acetone, amyl alcohol, ethanol, benzene, ether, turpentine. Saponification number = 146-150; Acid number = 109-114. Most copals fluoresce white under short-wave UV light.

Melting Point 130-200

Hazards and Safety

Combustible, burning with a bright flame, dense smoke, and strong smell.

Authority

  • R. J. Gettens, G.L. Stout, Painting Materials, A Short Encyclopaedia, Dover Publications, New York, 1966 Comment: gives trees as Copaifera guibourtiana
  • Website address 1 Comment: "Copal: An Immature and Controversial Resin" at www.emporia.edu/earthsci/amber/copal.htm - gives tree as Copaifera guibourthiana

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