3-Mercapto-2-pentanone (CAS 67633-97-0) — Balsamic Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient
3-Mercapto-2-pentanone
CAS 67633-97-0
What Is 3-Mercapto-2-pentanone?
3-Mercapto-2-pentanone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add meaty, savory nuances to perfumes and flavorings. It’s found in some gourmand and savory-leaning fragrances. This molecule matters because it can create unique umami effects when blended with fruity or floral notes, offering perfumers a tool for unconventional compositions.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 3-Mercapto-2-pentanone Smell Like?
3-Mercapto-2-pentanone delivers a potent, savory-meaty character reminiscent of roasted meats or fried onions at full strength. When diluted, it reveals a complex interplay of sulfurous depth with fruity undertones. The top note is intensely sulfuraceous, evolving into a heart that balances meaty richness with a subtle tropical fruitiness. The dry-down leaves a lingering savory impression that works exceptionally well in gourmand accords.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
3-Mercapto-2-pentanone belongs to the class of sulfur-containing ketones, specifically a pentanone with a mercapto group at the 3-position. It’s exclusively synthetic, typically produced through the reaction of 2-pentanone with hydrogen sulfide or via organosulfur chemistry routes. The sulfur atom contributes significantly to its odor profile, creating strong meaty-sulfuraceous notes even at low concentrations.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.5% | Used sparingly for savory effects |
| Flavorings | 0.001-0.01% | Up to 0.05% | Meat flavor enhancer |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts (ppm levels) for meaty nuances in gourmand compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intense meaty character, used when stronger savory impact is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No specific IFRA restrictions. General sulfur compound handling guidelines apply.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Limited RIFM assessment data available. Considered safe at current usage levels.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 3-Mercapto-2-pentanone’s environmental impact depends on production methods. Being highly potent, it requires minimal quantities in formulations, reducing overall material consumption. No known natural sources exist, making synthetic production the only viable route.
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