2H-Inden-2-one, 1,3-dihydro- (CAS 615-13-4) — Woody Middle to Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Woody · Balsamic

2H-Inden-2-one, 1,3-dihydro-

CAS 615-13-4

Origin
synthetic
Note
Middle to Base
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 2H-Inden-2-one, 1,3-dihydro-?

1,3-dihydro-2H-inden-2-one is a synthetic fragrance compound with a complex, woody-balsamic character. It’s found in niche perfumes and some specialty body care products. This ingredient adds depth and longevity to fragrance compositions, serving as a subtle bridge between brighter top notes and richer base accords.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Approved for fragrance use
⚠ Limited safety data available
CAS
615-13-4
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 2H-Inden-2-one, 1,3-dihydro- Smell Like?

1,3-dihydro-2H-inden-2-one unfolds with an initial impression of dry, slightly smoky woodiness reminiscent of aged paper and distant campfire embers. As it evolves, a subtle leathery nuance emerges, paired with faint balsamic undertones that suggest antique wooden chests. The dry-down reveals a delicate powdery facet, like fine cedar sawdust, lingering close to the skin with remarkable tenacity. Its character is introspective rather than bold—a whisper of complexity that serves best as a supporting actor in fragrance compositions.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

1,3-dihydro-2H-inden-2-one belongs to the indanone class of aromatic ketones, characterized by a fused benzene and cyclopentanone ring system. While not known to occur naturally, it shares structural similarities with some naturally occurring indane derivatives. Industrial synthesis typically involves Friedel-Crafts acylation of indane precursors, with careful control of reaction conditions to prevent over-oxidation. The planar, rigid structure of this molecule contributes to its moderate volatility and substantive properties on skin.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle to Base
Volatility
Moderate (2-6 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Background woody modifier
Home Fragrance1-3%Up to 8%Adds dry woody character

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to add dry woodiness without excessive sweetness in chypre or woody oriental bases.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Norlimbanol CAS 70788-30-6

For more pronounced woody impact with similar tenacity but greater diffusion.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No current IFRA restrictions apply to this material.

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM safety assessment currently available for this material.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, 1,3-dihydro-2H-inden-2-one’s environmental impact primarily relates to petrochemical feedstocks and manufacturing energy use. Its production doesn’t involve endangered natural resources, but green chemistry approaches to synthesis could improve its sustainability profile. The material’s potency at low concentrations helps minimize overall environmental loading in finished products.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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