5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal (CAS 21834-92-4) — Sweet Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Sweet · Floral

5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal

CAS 21834-92-4

Origin
synthetic
Note
Top to middle
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal?

5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add fruity, floral, and slightly woody nuances to perfumes. It’s found in various personal care products and fine fragrances. This molecule matters because it contributes unique olfactory properties that can’t be easily replicated with natural extracts, allowing perfumers to create novel scent profiles.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Safe at recommended usage levels
Potential skin sensitizer – patch test recommended
CAS
21834-92-4
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal Smell Like?

5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal opens with a bright, fruity character reminiscent of ripe apples and pears, with subtle floral undertones. As it evolves, it reveals a deeper, slightly woody base that adds complexity. The dry-down is smooth and persistent, leaving a delicate fruity-floral trail. Its odor profile bridges the gap between fresh top notes and warmer heart notes, making it versatile in compositions.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Fantasy(Britney Spears, 2005)

Used to enhance the fruity-floral heart, contributing to the signature juicy pear note that defines this popular celebrity fragrance.

Light Blue(Dolce & Gabbana, 2001)

Adds a crisp, fruity dimension to the citrus top notes, helping create the refreshing yet sophisticated summer scent profile.

Layer 2

2D Molecular Structure

5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal

SMILES: CC(C)CC=C(C=O)C1=CC=CC=C1

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal belongs to the class of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, known for their reactivity and distinctive odor profiles. While not found in nature, it’s synthesized through aldol condensation reactions. The phenyl group contributes to its stability and influences its odor characteristics. The molecule’s structure allows it to interact with both fruity and floral olfactory receptors.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor StrengthMedium to strong

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top to middle
Volatility
Medium (1-3 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds fruity-floral character
Body Care0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Used in moderation due to potency

Classic Accords

Tip: Use in conjunction with citrus top notes to enhance freshness and with white florals to boost their fruity aspects.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Hexyl cinnamaldehyde CAS 101-86-0

Offers similar floral-jasmine character but with less fruity impact and better stability in alkaline formulations.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.

RIFM Assessment

Under evaluation by RIFM for comprehensive safety assessment.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, 5-Methyl-2-phenyl-2-hexenal doesn’t rely on natural resources but requires energy-intensive chemical processes. Its production can be optimized for minimal waste and environmental impact through green chemistry principles.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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    Physicochemical Properties

    DTXSID: DTXSID9047419

    Physical Properties

    Molecular Weight 188.27 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox
    Density 0.973 g/cm^3🔬 EPA CTX
    Boiling Point 294.36 °C📊 OPERA
    Melting Point 28.319 °C📊 OPERA
    Flash Point 121.147 °C📊 OPERA
    Refractive Index 1.514 Dimensionless📊 OPERA
    Molar Volume 197.489 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA

    Partition & Solubility

    LogP (Octanol-Water) 3.121 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA
    LogD (pH 5.5) 3.121 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA
    LogD (pH 7.4) 3.121 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA
    LogKoa (Octanol-Air) 6.69 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA
    Water Solubility 0.002 mol/L📊 OPERA
    Henry's Law Constant 0 atm-m3/mole📊 OPERA

    Transport Properties

    Vapor Pressure 0.039 mmHg📊 OPERA
    Viscosity 4.293 cP📊 OPERA
    Surface Tension 33.741 dyn/cm📊 OPERA

    Molecular Descriptors

    Topological Polar Surface Area 17.07 Ų💻 Computed
    H-Bond Donors 0 count💻 Computed
    H-Bond Acceptors 1 count💻 Computed
    Rotatable Bonds 4 count💻 Computed
    Aromatic Rings 1 count💻 Computed
    Molar Refractivity 59.462 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA
    Polarizability 23.572 Å^3📊 OPERA

    Data Sources:

    🔬 EPA Experimental data from U.S. EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard & CTX APIs. 📊 OPERA Predicted using EPA's OPERA QSAR models. 💻 Computed Calculated from SMILES using RDKit.

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