Chlorophyllin, copper sodium complex (CAS 11006-34-1) — Green N/A Note Fragrance Ingredient
Chlorophyllin, copper sodium complex
CAS 11006-34-1
What Is Chlorophyllin, copper sodium complex?
Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic green pigment derived from chlorophyll, commonly encountered in food coloring (E141) and some cosmetic products. It provides vibrant green hues without strong odor. While not a traditional fragrance ingredient, it’s sometimes used in novelty perfumes for its visual impact when combined with scented formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Chlorophyllin, copper sodium complex Smell Like?
Chlorophyllin itself is nearly odorless, with only faint vegetal undertones reminiscent of crushed leaves or grass clippings. When used in fragrance applications, it serves primarily as a colorant rather than an olfactory component. Some formulations may develop a slight metallic nuance from the copper complex over time.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: [Na+].[Na+].[Na+].[Cu++].CCC1=C(C)\C2=C\C3=C(C=C)C(C)=C([N-]3)\C=C3/N=C([C@@H](CCC([O-])=O)[C@@H]3C)/C(/CC([O-])=O)=C3\[N-]\C(=C/C1=N2)C(C)=C3C([O-])=O
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Chlorophyllin is a water-soluble derivative of chlorophyll where the magnesium center is replaced by copper and the phytyl tail is removed. The sodium salts improve solubility. Produced through alkaline hydrolysis of plant-derived chlorophyll followed by copper substitution. The complex forms stable, bright green solutions resistant to fading from light exposure.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Dark green powder |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Water soluble |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Novelty Fragrances | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.5% | Colorant only |
| Bath Products | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 1% | Visual enhancement |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use minimal quantities to avoid staining; works best in clear bases where color can be appreciated.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Natural alternative when oil-soluble green coloring is needed, though less stable than chlorophyllin.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for topical use at current exposure levels.
Sustainability
While derived from plant chlorophyll, the synthetic modification process requires energy input. Copper mining for the complex raises some environmental concerns, though the small quantities used minimize impact. Often preferred over natural chlorophyll for superior stability.
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References
- FDA (2023). Code of Federal Regulations Title 21. 21CFR73.1250
- EFSA Panel (2015). Re-evaluation of chlorophyllins. EFSA Journal. EFSA Journal 13(6)
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 11006-34-1Physical 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.
Physicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID1045956
Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 724.159 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox |
| Boiling Point | 370 °C📊 OPERA |
| Melting Point | 169 °C📊 OPERA |
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 2.45 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 5.5) | 2.42 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 7.4) | 1.62 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogKoa (Octanol-Air) | 9.54 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| Water Solubility | 0 mol/L📊 OPERA |
| Henry's Law Constant | 0 atm-m3/mole📊 OPERA |
Transport Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 0 mmHg📊 OPERA |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 174.37 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 0 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 8 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 8 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 3 count💻 Computed |
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.
