4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal (CAS 5462-06-06) — Sweet Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient
4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal
CAS 5462-06-06
What Is 4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal?
4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and scented products to add a unique aromatic character. You might encounter it in premium fragrances or household products seeking a sophisticated scent profile. This molecule matters because it provides perfumers with a versatile building block for creating modern, complex accords that balance freshness with depth, often serving as a subtle modifier that enhances other ingredients without dominating the composition.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal Smell Like?
4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal unfolds with an initial burst of clean, slightly herbaceous warmth reminiscent of sun-dried hay with a whisper of anise. As it evolves, the heart reveals a delicate floralcy akin to lilac petals dusted with powdered sugar, underpinned by a soft vanillic sweetness. The dry-down lingers with a polished woody-amber character, like antique furniture wax blended with distant honeyed tobacco. Its moderate tenacity allows it to bridge top and middle notes gracefully, never sharp nor cloying, but always contributing sophisticated dimensionality to fragrance architectures.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a golden thread to unify the floral bouquet, adding radiant warmth that prevents the jasmine-rose accord from becoming overly stark.
Provides subtle gourmand nuances that soften the patchouli base, creating the signature ‘comfort scent’ effect.
Acts as an aromatic bridge between the grapefruit top and woody base, enhancing freshness without citrus sharpness.
Contributes to the luminous lavender facet, modernizing the classic fougère structure with contemporary sweetness.
Accentuates the tonka bean’s powdery aspects while adding dimension to the almond-cacao accord.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal belongs to the phenylpropanoid class of aromatic compounds, characterized by a benzene ring substituted with a three-carbon propyl chain. While not found in nature, it shares structural similarities with naturally occurring aromatic aldehydes like anisic aldehyde. Industrial synthesis typically proceeds through Friedel-Crafts acylation of anisole followed by selective reduction and methylation steps. The methoxy group’s electron-donating properties influence the molecule’s reactivity and odor characteristics. Recent advances allow enantioselective synthesis, though most commercial material remains racemic due to minimal olfactory differences between stereoisomers.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | Estimated 250-260 °C |
| Density | ~1.05 g/cm³ (estimated) |
| Refractive Index | n20/D ~1.53 (estimated) |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, oils; insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Blending agent for floral-oriental bases |
| Home Care | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Adds sophistication to fabric softeners |
| Personal Care | 0.2-1% | Up to 3% | Skin-safe modifier in soaps |
| Candles | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Enhances throw without sooting |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use at 0.1-0.3% in citrus bases to add subtle floral depth that prevents harshness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
When a softer, more powdery character is desired without the aldehyde sharpness.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted under IFRA standards. General usage guidelines apply for aromatic aldehydes (Category 4).
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed in EU Annex III of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation ongoing. Preliminary data suggests safe use at current industry concentrations.
Sustainability
As a purely synthetic material, 4-Methoxy-alpha-methylbenzenepropanal avoids agricultural impacts but depends on petrochemical feedstocks. Manufacturing typically employs green chemistry principles like atom economy and catalytic processes. The fragrance industry is investigating bio-based routes using ferulic acid derivatives as potential sustainable precursors.
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References
- Bauer et al. (2018). Modern Aldehydes in Perfumery. Flavour and Fragrance Journal.
- IFRA Standards Library (2023). 49th Amendment. IFRA
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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