Coconut CO2 extract (CAS 8001-31-8) — Sweet Middle to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Coconut CO2 extract
CAS 8001-31-8
What Is Coconut CO2 extract?
Coconut CO2 extract is a concentrated, natural fragrance ingredient derived from fresh coconut meat using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction. You’ll encounter it in tropical perfumes, suntan lotions, and gourmand body care products. This ingredient matters because it captures the authentic, creamy-sweet aroma of fresh coconut without the greasiness of traditional coconut oil, making it ideal for lightweight formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Coconut CO2 extract Smell Like?
The CO2 extraction process yields an intensely tropical aroma – think freshly cracked coconuts with their milky-white flesh still glistening. Unlike synthetic coconut notes, this has a rounded, buttery depth with hints of warm sandalwood-like undertones. The top notes burst with sweet lactonic creaminess that evolves into a rich, slightly nutty heart. Dry-down reveals a soft, skin-like muskiness that prevents it from becoming cloying. When diluted, it mimics the scent of sun-warmed skin after applying coconut oil at the beach.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its photorealistic tropical effect, blending with lime and white rum notes to create a vacation-in-a-bottle sensation. The CO2 extract provides the authentic sunscreened skin accord.
Forms the creamy foundation of this marine gourmand, tempering the saltiness with edible warmth. The extraction method preserves delicate lactones that evaporate in steam-distilled versions.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Coconut CO2 extract contains a complex mixture of medium-chain fatty acids (lauric acid being predominant), volatile lactones (particularly δ-decalactone and γ-nonalactone), and phenolic compounds. The supercritical CO2 process selectively extracts these aroma molecules at low temperatures, preserving delicate top notes that would be lost in steam distillation. Unlike coconut oil which requires solvents, this method yields a cleaner profile by leaving behind heavier triglycerides.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol and oils |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| δ-Decalactone | 705-86-2 | 170.25 | 289 °C | 3.2 | 0.001 mmHg |
| Lauric Acid | 143-07-7 | 200.32 | 298 °C | 4.6 | 0.0001 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds tropical warmth without heaviness |
| Body Care | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Provides authentic suntan lotion nostalgia |
Classic Accords
Tip: Combine with ethyl maltol to enhance the creamy aspects without adding vanilla’s sweetness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intense but heavier, suitable for base notes where CO2 extract’s freshness isn’t required.
Single molecule alternative when only the characteristic coconut lactone is needed without supporting notes.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for use in current applications based on RIFM’s natural complex substance assessment.
Sustainability
CO2 extraction is more environmentally friendly than solvent-based methods, using recyclable carbon dioxide. However, coconut farming can have deforestation impacts – look for suppliers with sustainable agroforestry programs. The process yields higher than steam distillation, requiring fewer coconuts per kilo of extract.
Explore Coconut CO2 extract
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References
- Baldwin et al. (2011). Supercritical CO2 extraction of tropical fruits. Journal of Supercritical Fluids. DOI:10.1016/j.supflu.2011.01.003
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8001-31-8Physical 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.
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