Cellulose (CAS 9004-34-6) — Citrus None Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Cellulose

CAS 9004-34-6

Origin
synthetic
Note
None
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Cellulose?

Cellulose is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls, commonly encountered in paper, cotton fabrics, and some processed foods. In perfumery, it’s used as a bulking agent or to modify texture in solid fragrances. While odorless itself, cellulose plays a supporting role in fragrance delivery systems, helping to control release rates in products like scented candles or solid perfumes.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-toxic and biodegradable
✓ FDA-approved for food and cosmetic use
CAS
9004-34-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Cellulose Smell Like?

Cellulose is completely odorless, serving purely functional roles in fragrance formulations. As an inert carbohydrate polymer, it lacks volatile compounds that would contribute to scent. Its value lies in physical properties – acting as a carrier, thickener, or texturizer in solid fragrance formats without interfering with the olfactory profile of other ingredients.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Cellulose is a polysaccharide consisting of linear chains of β(1→4) linked D-glucose units. Naturally abundant in plant cell walls, commercial cellulose for perfumery is typically derived from wood pulp or cotton linters through chemical processing. The material can be chemically modified (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose ethers) to achieve specific functional properties while maintaining biodegradability and non-toxicity.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceWhite fibrous powder
SolubilityInsoluble in water and organic solvents

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
None
Volatility
Non-volatile
Blending
Functional carrier
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Solid Perfumes10-30%Up to 50%Base material for texture
Scented Candles5-15%Up to 25%Wax modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use microcrystalline cellulose for optimal binding in pressed powder fragrances.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Silica CAS 7631-86-9

Inorganic alternative for absorption and texture modification in powder formulations.

2
Starch CAS 9005-25-8

Plant-derived carbohydrate with similar bulking properties but different moisture sensitivity.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions – classified as non-hazardous.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM classifies cellulose as safe for all cosmetic applications.

Sustainability

Cellulose is renewable and biodegradable, typically sourced from responsibly managed forests or cotton byproducts. Synthetic modifications are minimal, maintaining environmental friendliness. The production process has low energy requirements compared to petrochemical alternatives, though bleaching steps may involve chemicals requiring proper wastewater treatment.

Explore Cellulose

Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.

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References

  1. Klemm et al. (2005). Cellulose: Fascinating Biopolymer and Sustainable Raw Material. Angewandte Chemie. DOI:10.1002/anie.200460587

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

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