Cinnamyl nitrile (CAS 1885-38-7) — Spicy Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Cinnamyl nitrile
CAS 1885-38-7
What Is Cinnamyl nitrile?
Cinnamyl nitrile is a synthetic fragrance compound that mimics the warm, spicy character of cinnamon. You’ll encounter it in perfumes, candles, and flavored products where a cinnamon-like aroma is desired. This ingredient matters because it provides the familiar cinnamon scent without some of the skin sensitivity concerns associated with natural cinnamon derivatives.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Cinnamyl nitrile Smell Like?
Cinnamyl nitrile delivers an intense, spicy-sweet cinnamon aroma with a crisp, slightly woody undertone. The opening is sharp and penetrating, reminiscent of freshly ground cinnamon sticks, which gradually softens into a warm, ambery base. Unlike natural cinnamon oils, it lacks the phenolic harshness, presenting a cleaner cinnamon character that blends well with vanilla and oriental accords. The dry-down reveals a subtle almond-like nuance that adds complexity to gourmand compositions.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a cinnamon-modifier in the explosive opening accord, providing a clean spicy lift without overwhelming the pepper and saffron notes.
Contributes to the gourmand cinnamon-chocolate accord, offering stability and diffusion in the heart notes.
Enhances the oriental spice theme with a long-lasting cinnamon effect that complements the amber base.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: N#C\C=C\C1=CC=CC=C1
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Cinnamyl nitrile belongs to the nitrile class of organic compounds, characterized by a -CN functional group attached to a cinnamyl moiety. While not found in nature, it’s synthesized through the dehydration of cinnamaldoxime or via the Rosenmund-von Braun reaction. The molecule’s planar structure and conjugated π-system contribute to its excellent stability and resistance to oxidation compared to cinnamaldehyde.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 250-252 °C |
| Density | 1.04 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Spice accent |
| Home Care | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Warming effect |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus top notes to create sparkling spice effects in modern colognes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For a more natural cinnamon character, though with greater skin sensitization potential.
When a softer, less sharp cinnamon effect is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No specific restrictions under IFRA standards. General usage guidelines apply.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Evaluated by RIFM with no significant safety concerns at typical usage levels.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, cinnamyl nitrile avoids the agricultural impacts of cinnamon cultivation. Its production typically involves petrochemical feedstocks, though modern synthesis routes are becoming more efficient. The compound’s stability reduces waste in formulations.
Explore Cinnamyl nitrile
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References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
- IFRA Standards Library IFRA
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorPhysicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID8044385
Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 129.162 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox |
| Density | 1.03 g/cm^3🔬 EPA CTX |
| Boiling Point | 260.717 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Melting Point | 20.5 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Flash Point | 105.3 °C🔬 EPA CTX |
| Refractive Index | 1.595 Dimensionless📊 OPERA |
| Molar Volume | 123.792 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 1.96 Log10 unitless🔬 EPA CTX |
| LogD (pH 5.5) | 2.169 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 7.4) | 2.169 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogKoa (Octanol-Air) | 4.97 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| Water Solubility | 0.008 mol/L🔬 EPA CTX |
| Henry's Law Constant | 0 atm-m3/mole📊 OPERA |
Transport Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 0.009 mmHg🔬 EPA CTX |
| Surface Tension | 41.471 dyn/cm📊 OPERA |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 23.79 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 0 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Molar Refractivity | 42.056 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
| Polarizability | 16.672 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.
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