3-Methylbutyl 2-methylpropanoate (CAS 2050-01-03) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
3-Methylbutyl 2-methylpropanoate
CAS 2050-01-03
What Is 3-Methylbutyl 2-methylpropanoate?
3-Methylbutyl 2-methylpropanoate is a synthetic ester used in fragrances to create fruity, banana-like aromas. You’ll encounter it in tropical fruit flavors and some floral perfumes. This ingredient matters because it adds a naturalistic fruity lift without being overpowering, helping create balanced compositions where sweetness needs subtlety.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 3-Methylbutyl 2-methylpropanoate Smell Like?
A vibrant, fruity ester that bursts with ripe banana peel and juicy pear skin in its opening. The initial sweetness mellows into a candied apple core warmth, with a subtle green undertone reminiscent of fresh-cut grass. Dry-down reveals a clean, slightly waxy character like beeswax candles, making it useful for adding naturalistic fruit effects without cloying syrupiness.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as the core banana accord, blended with vanilla and rum notes to create a photorealistic dessert effect without synthetic candy tones.
Provides the juicy top note in this cocktail-inspired scent, combining with pineapple and passionfruit materials for effervescence.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
This branched-chain ester belongs to the class of fruit esters synthesized through acid-catalyzed esterification of isovaleric acid derivatives. Industrial production typically involves Fischer esterification between 3-methyl-1-butanol and 2-methylpropanoic acid with sulfuric acid catalyst. The molecular structure features optimal carbon chain length for fruity odor characteristics, with branching preventing excessive sweetness.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | ~160-165 °C (estimated) |
| Density | ~0.86 g/cm³ (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Fruity modifier |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Fruit top notes |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use below 2% to avoid waxy off-notes in dry-down.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intense banana character but less stable; use when stronger top note impact is needed.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions (48th Amendment).
RIFM Assessment
Evaluated as safe for current fragrance use patterns (RIFM, 2018).
Sustainability
Synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks but requires minimal energy input compared to complex fragrance materials. No known ecological toxicity at production scales.
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References
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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