7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one, (7Z) (CAS 854373-71-0) — Musky Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Musky · Woody

7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one, (7Z)

CAS 854373-71-0

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one, (7Z)?

7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one is a synthetic musk compound used in modern perfumery. It’s found in high-end fragrances where a clean, musky base note is desired. This ingredient is valued for its ability to add depth and longevity to fragrances without the animalic qualities of traditional musks. It provides a subtle yet persistent warmth that enhances other notes.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Approved for use in cosmetics
⚠ Limited safety data available
CAS
854373-71-0
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Musky · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one, (7Z) Smell Like?

7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one offers a refined musk character with clean, slightly powdery undertones. It evolves from a faintly metallic opening to a soft, skin-like warmth in the dry down. The scent profile resembles freshly laundered linen blended with the faintest whisper of warm skin, making it ideal for modern, gender-neutral compositions. Its subtlety allows it to enhance floral and woody accords without overwhelming them.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one belongs to the macrocyclic ketone class of musks, structurally similar to natural muscone but with a cyclohexadecene ring system. The (7Z) designation indicates the cis configuration of the double bond at position 7. Synthetic routes typically involve ring-closing metathesis or cyclization of long-chain precursors. Its relatively rigid structure contributes to its clean musk character while avoiding the animalic notes of some traditional musks.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor TypeMusk

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (24+ hours)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-3%Up to 5%Musky base note
Body Care0.1-1%Up to 2%Subtle skin scent
Fabric Care0.01-0.1%Up to 0.5%Linen freshness

Classic Accords

Tip: Use in trace amounts to avoid overpowering compositions – its effects are cumulative.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Muscone CAS 541-91-3

Natural musk ketone for more animalic character

2
Ethylene Brassylate CAS 105-95-3

More affordable macrocyclic musk with similar tenacity

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 review by RIFM for comprehensive safety assessment.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, 7-Cyclohexadecen-1-one avoids the ethical concerns of animal-derived musks. Its production requires specialized chemical synthesis but avoids the environmental impact of harvesting natural musk. Modern catalytic methods aim to minimize waste and energy consumption during production.

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References

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

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    Ingredient Data Sheet

    CAS 854373-71-0

    Regulatory Status

    IFRA ListedYes — see IFRA Standards for category limits⚖️ IFRA 51
    Data Sources & Attribution
    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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