2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate (CAS 0103-07-01) — Floral Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate
CAS 0103-07-01
What Is 2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate?
2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and scented products. It contributes a fresh, fruity-floral character to compositions. This molecule is valued by perfumers for its ability to add brightness and lift to floral accords while providing good stability in formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate Smell Like?
2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate opens with a crisp, sparkling fruity tone reminiscent of green apples and fresh pears. As it evolves, a delicate floral heart emerges, suggesting lily-of-the-valley and magnolia petals. The dry-down reveals a subtle woody-herbal nuance that provides excellent tenacity. This material behaves like a natural acetate but with enhanced stability and projection, making it ideal for modern floral and fruity compositions where both freshness and longevity are desired.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a brightening top note to enhance the grapefruit-quince opening, contributing to the fragrance’s signature ‘dewy rose’ effect while improving diffusion.
Provides subtle fruity facets that support the citrus top notes and help bridge to the floral heart in this iconic fresh fragrance.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate is a branched-chain ester derived from phenylpropanoid chemistry. The molecule features an acetate group attached to a tertiary carbon adjacent to a phenyl ring, creating unique steric effects that influence both odor characteristics and stability. Industrial synthesis typically involves the acetylation of the corresponding alcohol precursor. The tertiary carbon center makes this compound resistant to hydrolysis compared to simpler floral acetates, while the phenyl group contributes to its tenacity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 250-255 °C (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.98-1.02 g/cm³ (estimated) |
| Refractive Index | 1.485-1.495 (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 8% | Floral-fruity modifier |
| Functional Fragrances | 0.1-1% | Up to 2% | Freshness booster |
Classic Accords
Tip: Combine with citrus materials to create sparkling floral openings with enhanced diffusion.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar fruity-floral effects but with more pronounced rosy aspects and better solubility in alcohol bases.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No specific restrictions under current IFRA standards (as of 51st Amendment).
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for current fragrance use based on available data and structural analogs.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 2-Methyl-4-phenyl-2-butyl acetate has consistent quality and doesn’t depend on agricultural production. The manufacturing process can be optimized for energy efficiency and waste reduction. Being petroleum-derived, its environmental impact depends on responsible sourcing of feedstocks and green chemistry principles in synthesis.
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References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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