5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone (CAS 0698-10-2) — Sweet Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone
CAS 0698-10-2
What Is 5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone?
5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone is a synthetic aroma chemical used to add caramel-like sweetness to fragrances and flavors. You might encounter it in gourmand perfumes or food products. This ingredient matters because it creates rich, dessert-like accords that evoke warmth and comfort, making fragrances more inviting and delicious.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone Smell Like?
This furanone derivative delivers an intense, warm caramel sweetness with a slightly burnt sugar nuance. The top note is a burst of rich toffee that evolves into a heart of maple syrup and brown sugar. The dry-down reveals a subtle roasted coffee undertone, adding depth to its gourmand character. It behaves like liquid dessert, lingering on the skin with a comforting, edible quality.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a supporting note to enhance the gourmand chocolate-patchouli accord, adding caramelized depth to the fragrance’s edible personality.
Contributes to the praline-iris accord, providing a warm, sugary sweetness that balances the floral powdery notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone belongs to the furanone class of compounds, known for their potent sweet and caramel-like aromas. While structurally similar to some naturally occurring furanones in roasted foods, this specific molecule is produced synthetically. Its synthesis typically involves cyclization of appropriate hydroxy-keto acid precursors. The molecule’s stereochemistry significantly impacts its odor profile, with different enantiomers exhibiting varying intensity of sweet characteristics.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | Estimated 250-300°C |
| Density | Approx. 1.05 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used for gourmand accents |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Adds warmth to detergents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with vanillic materials to create complex gourmand effects without overpowering.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More strawberry-like character, used when a fruitier sweet note is desired while maintaining similar caramel undertones.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No specific IFRA restrictions. General furanone guidelines apply.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated structurally similar furanones; this specific compound requires further study.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, this furanone is produced through controlled chemical processes with minimal environmental impact compared to natural extraction. Its high potency means small quantities are effective, reducing overall material usage in formulations.
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Ingredient Data Sheet
CAS 0698-10-2Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 142.15 g/mol🔬 PubChem |
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 0.9🔬 PubChem |
| log Kp (skin permeability) | -2.928💻 Calculated |
Sensory Thresholds
| Odor Detection Threshold | 0.0024 ppm (n=11)📖 van Gemert |
Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
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