Guaiacwood acetate (CAS 61789-17-1) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Guaiacwood acetate
CAS 61789-17-1
What Is Guaiacwood acetate?
Guaiacwood acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add rich, smoky woody notes to perfumes. It’s often found in masculine colognes and oriental fragrances. This material matters because it captures the deep, resinous character of natural guaiac wood while offering perfumers more stability and consistency in formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Guaiacwood acetate Smell Like?
Guaiacwood acetate opens with a crisp, slightly medicinal woodiness reminiscent of freshly cut hardwood. As it evolves, the heart reveals a complex interplay of smoky, leathery undertones with a subtle sweet-balsamic nuance. The dry-down is where it shines – a warm, velvety wood note with exceptional tenacity, leaving a sophisticated trail that combines the ruggedness of aged timber with the refinement of fine leather goods.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here to amplify the leather accord, adding depth and smokiness that complements the raspberry top notes. The acetate’s stability helps maintain the fragrance’s bold character throughout wear.
Provides woody backbone to this opulent floral, blending with patchouli and dark chocolate notes to create a luxurious, slightly animalic dry-down.
Used sparingly to enhance the incense theme, adding a charred wood facet that makes the composition feel more ancient and ceremonial.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Guaiacwood acetate is an ester derivative of guaiacol, synthesized through acetylation of natural guaiacwood oil components. The acetate group increases molecular weight and volatility profile compared to the parent alcohols, making it more tenacious in fragrance applications. While not found in nature, its olfactory profile closely mimics oxidized guaiac wood characteristics.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds woody depth without overpowering |
| Home Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 8% | Smoky wood note for candles/diffusers |
| Soaps/Detergents | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used sparingly for luxury products |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with ionones to soften the medicinal edge while maintaining woody character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Natural alternative with more complexity but less stability. Contains guaiol and bulnesol that contribute to its fuller profile.
Offers similar woody-tenacious character but with greener, rootier facets instead of smokiness.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No current IFRA restrictions. Listed on IFRA Transparency List as safe for use in all categories.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM safety assessment confirms safe usage at current industry levels with no sensitization concerns.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, guaiacwood acetate reduces pressure on natural guaiac wood resources while providing consistent quality. Production typically uses renewable carbon sources, and its high potency means smaller quantities are needed compared to natural extracts. The synthetic route avoids issues of overharvesting that affect some precious woods.
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References
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorPerfumer’s Notes
Ingredient Data Sheet
CAS 61789-17-1Physical 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.
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