Alcohols, C12-16 (CAS 68855-56-1) — Citrus Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Alcohols, C12-16

CAS 68855-56-1

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

What Is Alcohols, C12-16?

Alcohols, C12-16 are synthetic fatty alcohols commonly used as solvents and carriers in perfumery. They help blend fragrance ingredients and improve stability. These alcohols are found in many personal care products like lotions and deodorants, where they aid in even fragrance distribution.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in regulated products
⚠ Avoid direct contact with eyes
CAS
68855-56-1
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Alcohols, C12-16 Smell Like?

Alcohols, C12-16 are nearly odorless, serving as a neutral base in fragrance formulations. Their lack of distinct scent makes them ideal for carrying other fragrance notes without interference. They provide a clean, slightly waxy background that enhances the longevity and diffusion of more volatile components.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Alcohols, C12-16 are a mixture of synthetic fatty alcohols with carbon chain lengths ranging from 12 to 16. They are produced via the Ziegler process or through hydrogenation of natural fats and oils. These alcohols are valued for their solubility and stability in various formulations.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling PointN/A
Melting PointN/A
Flash PointN/A
DensityN/A
Vapor PressureN/A
Refractive IndexN/A
SolubilityN/A

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance5-10%Up to 15%Used as a solvent and carrier
Personal Care10-20%Up to 30%Improves fragrance stability

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a neutral base to enhance the longevity of other fragrance ingredients.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Cetyl Alcohol CAS 36653-82-4

A single-chain fatty alcohol with similar properties, often used as a substitute in formulations requiring higher purity.

2
Stearyl Alcohol CAS 112-92-5

A longer-chain fatty alcohol providing thicker texture and better emollient properties.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No restrictions under IFRA standards.

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe for use in fragrances by RIFM.

Sustainability

Synthetic production ensures consistent quality and reduces reliance on natural resources. However, the environmental impact of synthetic processes should be considered.

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References

  1. PubChem. Alcohols, C12-16. PubChem
  2. IFRA Standards. IFRA

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

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 68855-56-1
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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