beta-Naphthyl methyl ether (CAS 93-04-9) — Floral Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
beta-Naphthyl methyl ether
CAS 93-04-9
What Is beta-Naphthyl methyl ether?
Beta-Naphthyl methyl ether is a synthetic fragrance ingredient primarily used in perfumery and flavoring. It imparts a distinctive, long-lasting scent that perfumers value for its stability and blending properties. Consumers encounter it in fine fragrances, soaps, and detergents where it contributes to complex scent profiles. This compound matters because it offers an affordable, synthetic alternative to some natural ingredients, ensuring consistent quality and reducing reliance on variable natural sources.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does beta-Naphthyl methyl ether Smell Like?
Beta-Naphthyl methyl ether has a warm, powdery, slightly floral aroma with hints of orange blossom and a faintly medicinal undertone. The scent evolves from a sharp initial impression to a softer, more nuanced dry-down, reminiscent of aged linens and antique perfumes. Its tenacity makes it particularly useful in base notes, where it lingers subtly.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used to enhance the powdery, vanilla-oriental base, adding depth and longevity to the iconic amber accord.
Contributes to the floral-aldehyde bouquet, reinforcing the timeless elegance with its persistent warmth.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: COC1=CC2=C(C=CC=C2)C=C1
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Beta-Naphthyl methyl ether is a simple aromatic ether derived from naphthalene. It is synthesized through the Williamson ether synthesis, reacting beta-naphthol with methyl halides under basic conditions. The compound’s stability and low reactivity make it a versatile ingredient in perfumery, though its environmental persistence warrants careful consideration.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 275 °C |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 72-74 °C |
| Density | 1.08 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds warmth and persistence |
| Soaps | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Enhances floral notes |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly to avoid overpowering other notes; excellent for anchoring floral compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A more volatile option for top notes, with a sharper, less powdery character.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA, but recommended usage levels should be followed to minimize sensitization risk.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Under review by RIFM for comprehensive safety assessment.
Sustainability
As a synthetic compound, beta-Naphthyl methyl ether’s production is less resource-intensive than some natural alternatives, though its persistence in the environment requires responsible disposal practices.
Explore beta-Naphthyl methyl ether
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
Browse on iHerb →Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
References
- PubChem Beta-Naphthyl methyl ether PubChem CID: 7634
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorPhysicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID7044392
Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 158.2 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox |
| Density | 0.996 g/cm^3🔬 EPA CTX |
| Boiling Point | 272.552 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Melting Point | 72.988 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Flash Point | 108.14 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Refractive Index | 1.604 Dimensionless📊 OPERA |
| Molar Volume | 147.552 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 3.455 Log10 unitless🔬 EPA CTX |
| LogD (pH 5.5) | 3.489 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 7.4) | 3.489 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogKoa (Octanol-Air) | 5.79 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| Water Solubility | 0.001 mol/L🔬 EPA CTX |
| Henry's Law Constant | 0 atm-m3/mole📊 OPERA |
Transport Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 0.008 mmHg🔬 EPA CTX |
| Viscosity | 6.103 cP📊 OPERA |
| Surface Tension | 39.812 dyn/cm📊 OPERA |
| Thermal Conductivity | 130.797 mW/(m*K)📊 OPERA |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 9.23 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 0 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 2 count💻 Computed |
| Molar Refractivity | 50.774 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
| Polarizability | 20.128 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.
