Cyclohexaneethyl acetate (CAS 21722-83-8) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient

Sweet · Citrus

Cyclohexaneethyl acetate

CAS 21722-83-8

Origin
synthetic
Note
Top
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Cyclohexaneethyl acetate?

Cyclohexaneethyl acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add fresh, fruity notes to perfumes and scented products. You’ll encounter it in body sprays, fabric softeners, and some citrus-forward fragrances. This molecule matters because it provides cost-effective fruity-floral character without using natural extracts, making fragrances more sustainable while maintaining pleasant scent profiles.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
No major restrictions
Limited safety data available
CAS
21722-83-8
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Citrus
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Cyclohexaneethyl acetate Smell Like?

Cyclohexaneethyl acetate opens with a crisp, pear-like fruitiness reminiscent of juicy Bartlett pears dipped in citrus zest. The heart develops into a soft floralcy with hints of lily-of-the-valley and a subtle green apple freshness. As it dries down, it leaves a clean musk-tinged trail with whisper-thin woody undertones. The overall effect is like biting into a perfectly ripe pear while standing in a sunlit orchard – bright yet comforting, with excellent diffusion that makes it useful for functional fragrances.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Eau de Pear(ScentCraft, 2018)

Used as the primary fruity note to create a photorealistic pear accord, blending with hedione for diffusion and ambroxan for longevity.

Morning Dew(Aeroscape, 2020)

Provides the crisp top note in this functional fragrance, combining with calone for a dewy fruit effect in laundry products.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Cyclohexaneethyl acetate belongs to the ester class of fragrance compounds, synthesized through esterification of cyclohexaneethanol with acetic acid. While not found in nature, its structure mimics fruity esters found in pears and apples. The synthesis typically employs acid catalysis under controlled conditions to prevent unwanted side reactions. The cyclohexane ring provides stability while the ethyl acetate moiety delivers the characteristic fruity odor.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless liquid
Odor Threshold0.01 ppm (estimated)

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top
Volatility
Medium (1-2 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Fruity top note component
Functional Fragrances1-3%Up to 8%Cost-effective fruity note

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with citrus top notes to enhance diffusion and fruity character in fresh compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Ethyl-2-methylbutyrate CAS 7452-79-1

For more intense fruity character with apple/berry nuances when higher impact is needed.

2
Hexyl acetate CAS 142-92-7

When a greener, less sweet fruity note is desired, particularly in pear reconstructions.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM assessment currently available.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, cyclohexaneethyl acetate reduces pressure on natural resources while offering consistent quality. Production requires standard petrochemical feedstocks, but its high potency means low usage rates per formulation. Future green chemistry routes could improve sustainability through bio-based precursors.

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References

  1. Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.

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

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