8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline (CAS 67634-06-04) — Woody Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline
CAS 67634-06-04
What Is 8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline?
8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add a leathery, earthy, or animalic nuance to perfumes. It’s found in niche fragrances aiming for bold, unconventional profiles. This molecule matters because it provides a modern twist on classic leather accords, allowing perfumers to create fragrances that stand out with an edgy, slightly medicinal character while avoiding natural animal-derived materials.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline Smell Like?
8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline bursts with a sharp, medicinal bitterness reminiscent of iodine tincture and burning rubber, mellowing into a distinctive leathery heart with earthy undertones. The dry-down reveals a surprisingly smooth, slightly sweet tobacco-like character that lingers close to the skin. When diluted, it exhibits a fascinating duality – simultaneously evoking both the antiseptic cleanliness of a hospital and the warm intimacy of a well-worn leather jacket. The molecule’s tenacity makes it ideal for anchoring compositions, adding a provocative edge that cuts through sweeter or floral notes.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Provides the dark leather backbone that contrasts with the fragrance’s powdery iris, creating a modern masculine tension between softness and aggression.
Amplifies the raspberry-infused leather accord, adding a medicinal sharpness that prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline belongs to the quinoline class of heterocyclic compounds, characterized by a benzene ring fused to a pyridine ring. The sec-butyl substitution at the 8-position creates steric hindrance that influences both its odor profile and chemical reactivity. Industrially produced through Friedel-Crafts alkylation of quinoline, this synthetic material doesn’t occur naturally. The specific branching of the butyl group creates a chiral center, though the commercial material is typically sold as a racemic mixture. Its moderate molecular weight and balanced lipophilicity make it sufficiently volatile to impact top notes while persisting into the dry-down.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | ~250 °C (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used sparingly as a leather modifier |
| Home Fragrance | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.2% | Adds sophistication to woody bases |
Classic Accords
Tip: Always pre-dilute to 1% in ethanol before incorporating to avoid overwhelming the formula.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intensely leathery with less medicinal character; better for traditional leather accords where less edge is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted under IFRA standards.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Under review by RIFM as of 2023; preliminary data suggests safe use at current industry levels.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 8-(sec-Butyl)quinoline avoids the ethical and sustainability concerns of animal-derived leather notes. Its production from petrochemical feedstocks carries typical environmental impacts of synthetic organic chemistry, but its high potency means minimal quantities are required in formulations.
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References
- Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Montclair, NJ.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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