Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate (CAS 2021-28-5) — Sweet Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate
CAS 2021-28-5
What Is Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate?
Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly found in floral and fruity perfumes. It adds a sweet, rosy character reminiscent of honey and ripe fruit. This ester matters because it provides cost-effective alternatives to natural extracts while offering superior stability in formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate Smell Like?
Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate opens with a burst of honeyed roses dipped in ripe strawberries, its sweetness tempered by a subtle green stemminess. As it evolves, the floral character deepens into a velvety rose-petal heart with whispers of plum skin and candied violets. The dry-down reveals a soft, powdery muskiness reminiscent of antique sachets, leaving a delicate trail of floral sweetness that lingers close to the skin.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a honeyed rose modifier in the floral bouquet, adding depth and sweetness to balance the aldehydic sparkle.
Provides a fruity-floral bridge between the citrus top notes and chypre base, enhancing the perfume’s youthful character.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Ethyl 3-phenylpropionate belongs to the ester class, synthesized via Fischer esterification between 3-phenylpropionic acid and ethanol. This straightforward synthesis yields high purity material suitable for perfumery. The phenylpropionate backbone contributes both aromatic and aliphatic character, while the ethyl ester group enhances volatility for top-note applications.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 245-247 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.013 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Floral modifier |
| Soap | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Stable in alkaline conditions |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with ionones to create more natural-smelling rose accords.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
Evaluated as safe for current use levels in fragrance applications.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, ethyl 3-phenylpropionate offers consistent quality without agricultural impacts. Production from petrochemical precursors requires energy but avoids seasonal variability and land use issues associated with natural extracts.
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References
- 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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