3-Acetylpyridine (CAS 0350-03-08) — Sweet Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
3-Acetylpyridine
CAS 0350-03-08
What Is 3-Acetylpyridine?
3-Acetylpyridine is a synthetic aroma chemical used in niche fragrances and tobacco flavorings. It imparts a distinctive nutty, popcorn-like scent with smoky undertones. You might encounter it in avant-garde perfumes or specialty food flavorings. This ingredient matters because it adds unique roasted, earthy nuances that are difficult to replicate with natural materials, making it valuable for creating unconventional scent profiles.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 3-Acetylpyridine Smell Like?
3-Acetylpyridine delivers an immediate burst of warm, nutty popcorn with a burnt sugar edge, like the crisp crust on crème brûlée. The top note evolves into a leathery tobacco heart with roasted coffee undertones. As it dries down, it reveals a persistent smoky wood character reminiscent of charred oak barrels. The scent lingers with an addictive, slightly animalic muskiness that adds depth to gourmand and tobacco accords.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
3-Acetylpyridine belongs to the pyridine class of heterocyclic compounds, featuring a nitrogen atom in its aromatic ring structure. It’s produced through the Friedel-Crafts acylation of pyridine with acetyl chloride. The compound lacks chirality due to its planar structure. While not found in nature, it shares structural similarities with naturally occurring Maillard reaction products responsible for roasted food aromas. Its synthesis typically involves aluminum chloride catalysis under controlled conditions to prevent over-acylation.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used as a modifier for tobacco accords |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | For tobacco and roasted food flavors |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly as it can dominate a composition at higher concentrations.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Similar profile but with more pronounced burnt sugar character and less tobacco depth.
Offers comparable roasted notes but with more bread-like and nutty aspects.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards. Use within general guidelines for pyridine derivatives.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
No formal RIFM assessment available. Limited toxicological data suggests moderate irritation potential.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 3-acetylpyridine has minimal environmental impact in production compared to natural alternatives requiring agricultural land. Its efficient synthesis from petrochemical precursors makes it resource-effective, though dependent on fossil fuel feedstocks. Proper handling prevents environmental release due to its moderate aquatic toxicity.
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