Butyl propionate (CAS 0590-01-02) — Citrus Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Butyl propionate
CAS 0590-01-02
What Is Butyl propionate?
Butyl propionate is a synthetic ester commonly used in fragrances and flavorings. It’s found in perfumes, body care products, and some food applications. This ingredient contributes fruity, pear-like notes that brighten compositions. Its balanced volatility makes it useful for creating fresh top notes that transition smoothly into heart accords.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Butyl propionate Smell Like?
Butyl propionate opens with a burst of crisp, fruity character reminiscent of ripe pears and golden apples. The initial brightness carries subtle floral undertones like apple blossoms. As it evolves, it reveals a clean, slightly sweet base reminiscent of fresh laundry with a whisper of pineapple. The dry-down is surprisingly persistent for an ester, leaving a transparent fruity-woody trail that blends seamlessly with citrus and floral materials.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used to enhance the crisp apple-pear top notes, contributing to the fragrance’s signature aquatic freshness while maintaining excellent diffusion.
Provides subtle fruity lift to the citrus-herbal accord, balancing the sharpness of bergamot with rounded fruity tones.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Butyl propionate is an ester formed from butanol and propionic acid. Industrially produced via acid-catalyzed esterification, it’s a clear, colorless liquid with excellent solubility in alcohol and oils. As a small ester (MW 130.18), it exhibits moderate volatility and good stability in formulations. The molecule lacks chiral centers, ensuring consistent olfactory properties across production batches.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 145-147 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.875 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 35 °C |
| Refractive Index | 1.401 |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Fruity top note enhancer |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Freshness booster in detergents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus oils to extend their freshness and add dimensionality to simple fruity accords.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intense pineapple character with higher volatility, suitable when stronger tropical notes are desired.
Longer-lasting pear note with greener undertones, useful for more naturalistic fruit reconstructions.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Evaluated as safe for current fragrance use levels by RIFM.
Sustainability
Synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks with relatively low environmental impact. Production generates minimal waste and the material is readily biodegradable (OECD 301B). Energy-efficient esterification processes minimize carbon footprint compared to some natural alternatives.
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References
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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