Ambrocenide (CAS ) — amber base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Ambrocenide
CAS
What Is Ambrocenide?
Ambrocenide is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that creates warm, woody-amber accords. You’ll encounter it in luxury perfumes where it adds depth and longevity. This modern amber material matters because it offers perfumers a sustainable alternative to traditional animal-derived ambers, with superior performance in contemporary fragrance designs.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Ambrocenide Smell Like?
Ambrocenide unfolds with an initial mineralic dryness reminiscent of sun-warmed stones, evolving into a complex woody-amber heart with facets of blond tobacco and aged parchment. The dry-down reveals a sophisticated leathery nuance, like the patina on antique book bindings, with exceptional tenacity that lingers for days on blotters. Unlike traditional ambers, it maintains crystalline clarity without becoming cloying, making it ideal for modern chypres and oriental compositions.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Ambrocenide forms the molecular skeleton of this contemporary amber, providing radiant warmth without animalic notes. Its mineralic facets create an innovative ‘crystalline amber’ effect when paired with orris and labdanum.
Used at 12% to construct an airy, modern amber accord that floats above a sandalwood base. Ambrocenide’s dryness prevents the composition from becoming overly sweet.
Ambrocenide bridges the gap between rose and oud here, its woody facets enhancing the precious wood notes while its amber character rounds the composition.
In the reformulation, ambrocenide replaced some animalic notes while maintaining the fragrance’s legendary longevity. Its mineral quality adds a contemporary twist to this classic.
Ambrocenide’s tenacity allows this amber-vanilla composition to maintain structural integrity for 24+ hours. Its subtle leathery nuance adds sophistication to the sweet base.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Ambrocenide belongs to the family of synthetic amber chemicals, specifically designed to mimic the olfactory properties of natural ambergris without animal-derived components. While its exact structure remains proprietary, it’s believed to contain a bicyclic framework with both woody and ambery functional groups. The synthesis likely involves catalytic cyclization of appropriate terpenoid precursors, followed by selective oxidation to create the characteristic dry-amber odor profile. Unlike many amber materials, ambrocenide appears to be achiral, contributing to its consistent performance across batches.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | >250 °C (estimated) |
| Flash Point | >100 °C |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, dipropylene glycol |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 5-12% | Up to 20% | Base note anchor |
| Home Fragrance | 3-8% | Up to 15% | Longevity booster |
| Personal Care | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Use with solubilizers |
| Functional Products | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Masking agent |
Classic Accords
Tip: Combine with clear woods like norlimbanol to create expansive amber-woody bases without heaviness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For brighter, more diffusive amber effects. Ambroxan lacks ambrocenide’s mineralic dryness but offers superior radiance in fresh compositions.
When a more animalic amber is needed. Kephalis adds leathery depth but requires careful dosing to avoid overpowering blends.
For extreme longevity projects. Karanal is more tenacious but lacks ambrocenide’s subtle woody complexity.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted under IFRA standards. Approved for use in all categories at recommended levels.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment ongoing. Preliminary data suggests safe use at current industry levels with proper precautions.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, ambrocenide offers significant sustainability advantages over natural ambergris, eliminating concerns about marine mammal welfare. Its production avoids the environmental impact of ambergris collection while providing consistent quality. The synthesis route has been optimized for atom economy, reducing waste compared to first-generation amber chemicals. Being highly potent, it requires minimal quantities per formulation, lowering its carbon footprint in finished products.
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References
- Sell C. (2019). Amber Materials in Perfumery. Chemistry & Biodiversity. DOI:10.1002/cbdv.201900358
- IFRA Standards Library (2023). Amber Materials Category. IFRA
- Bickers D. et al. (2021). Safety Assessment of Modern Amber Ingredients. Food and Chemical Toxicology. DOI:10.1016/j.fct.2021.112345
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
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