2,6-Dimethoxyphenol (CAS 91-10-1) — Woody Middle to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
2,6-Dimethoxyphenol
CAS 91-10-1
What Is 2,6-Dimethoxyphenol?
2,6-Dimethoxyphenol is a synthetic aromatic compound primarily used in fragrance formulations. It’s not commonly encountered in everyday products but may appear in niche perfumes. This ingredient contributes smoky, woody nuances to fragrances, often enhancing complex accords.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 2,6-Dimethoxyphenol Smell Like?
2,6-Dimethoxyphenol presents a distinctive phenolic character with smoky, medicinal undertones reminiscent of creosote or charred wood. The aroma evolves from an initial sharp phenolic burst to a more rounded, slightly sweet woody base. It carries subtle vanillic nuances that emerge during dry-down, blending well with other woody and balsamic materials. The scent profile is persistent, making it useful for anchoring lighter top notes.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: COC1=CC=CC(OC)=C1O
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
2,6-Dimethoxyphenol belongs to the phenol ether class of aromatic compounds. It’s synthesized through methylation of pyrogallol or selective demethylation of syringol. The molecule features two methoxy groups ortho to the phenolic hydroxyl group, creating steric hindrance that influences its reactivity. This substitution pattern contributes to its unique olfactory properties compared to simpler phenols.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | White to pale yellow crystalline solid |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 56-58 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used as woody-phenolic modifier |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | For smoky accents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly to add phenolic depth without overwhelming the composition.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intensely phenolic with less sweetness, suitable for stronger smoky effects.
Similar structure with additional methoxy group, offering smoother woody character.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Limited safety data available; recommended for professional use at low concentrations.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 2,6-dimethoxyphenol production avoids natural resource depletion. However, its synthesis typically involves petrochemical precursors. Modern green chemistry approaches are being explored to reduce environmental impact during manufacturing.
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Physicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID2052607
Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 154.165 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox |
| Density | 1.126 g/cm^3📊 OPERA |
| Boiling Point | 260.833 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Melting Point | 54.985 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Flash Point | 100 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Refractive Index | 1.523 Dimensionless📊 OPERA |
| Molar Volume | 135.868 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 1.15 Log10 unitless🔬 EPA CTX |
| LogD (pH 5.5) | 1.134 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 7.4) | 1.133 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogKoa (Octanol-Air) | 7.18 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| Water Solubility | 0.112 mol/L🔬 EPA CTX |
| Henry's Law Constant | 0 atm-m3/mole🔬 EPA CTX |
Transport Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 0.009 mmHg📊 OPERA |
| Viscosity | 7.896 cP📊 OPERA |
| Surface Tension | 36.735 dyn/cm📊 OPERA |
| Thermal Conductivity | 151.88 mW/(m*K)📊 OPERA |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 38.69 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 1 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 3 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 2 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Molar Refractivity | 41.491 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
| Polarizability | 16.449 Å^3📊 OPERA |
Data Sources:
🔬 EPA Experimental data from U.S. EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard & CTX APIs. 📊 OPERA Predicted using EPA's OPERA QSAR models. 💻 Computed Calculated from SMILES using RDKit.
