Description

Canada Balsam (CAS NO 8016-42-0) is a natural oleoresin obtained from the balsam fir tree, *Abies balsamea*, valued for its high optical clarity and excellent adhesive properties. This material is essential for creating permanent, high-quality mounts in microscopy and optical applications due to its refractive index closely matching that of glass. It serves as a critical component for manufacturers and research laboratories in the life sciences, electronics, and specialty adhesives sectors requiring reliable, transparent bonding agents.

Application

• Microscopy Slide Mounting: The primary application is as a permanent, transparent mounting medium for biological specimens on glass slides.
• Optical Cement: Used for cementing lenses and optical elements where a clear, stable bond with minimal light scattering is required.
• Histology and Pathology: Employed in tissue section preparation for long-term preservation and examination.
• Adhesive Formulations: Serves as a natural resin component in specialty adhesives and varnishes.
• Pharmaceutical Preparations: Historically used in certain topical preparations and as a glazing agent.
• Art Conservation: Utilized in the restoration and preservation of paintings and artifacts as a traditional varnish or adhesive.

Basic Information

Product Name	Canada Balsam
CAS No.	8016-42-0
Molecular Formula	Complex mixture; primarily terpenes (α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, bornyl acetate)
Molecular Weight	N/A (Natural mixture)
Synonyms	Canada Turpentine; Balsam of Fir; Balsam Fir Oleoresin; *Abies balsamea* Resin; Balsam Canada; Optical Balsam; Turpentine, Canada; Balsamum Canadense; American Silver Fir Resin
EINECS	232-419-1

Quality Control

Our Canada Balsam is sourced and processed to meet the stringent requirements of optical and laboratory applications. Quality is assured through batch-specific testing for key parameters such as clarity, viscosity, refractive index, and solubility. While not typically conforming to pharmacopeial monographs, our material is produced under a rigorous quality management system. Certificates of Analysis (COA) detailing purity and physical characteristics are available upon request to support your quality assurance protocols.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (15-25°C). The product is light-sensitive (store away from light) and may thicken or crystallize upon prolonged storage; gentle warming can restore its fluid state.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Clear, pale yellow to yellowish-green viscous liquid
Identification (IR)	Conforms to characteristic spectrum of Canada Balsam
Refractive Index (n20D)	~1.518 - 1.525
Solubility	Freely soluble in toluene, xylene; soluble in ethanol; insoluble in water
Acid Value	< 100 mg KOH/g
Clarity	Clear, free from visible particulate matter
Drying Time (Film)	Forms a tack-free film within 24-72 hours at 25°C

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.