Heptyl acetate (CAS 0112-06-01) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Heptyl acetate
CAS 0112-06-01
What Is Heptyl acetate?
Heptyl acetate is a synthetic ester commonly used in perfumery for its fruity, pear-like aroma. You’ll encounter it in many fruity fragrances, especially those aiming for a fresh, juicy effect. This ingredient matters because it provides a cost-effective alternative to natural fruit extracts while offering excellent stability and blending properties in modern fragrance compositions.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Heptyl acetate Smell Like?
Heptyl acetate bursts forth with an intensely fruity character reminiscent of ripe pears and apples with a hint of banana. The top note is bright and slightly green, like freshly cut fruit. As it evolves, it reveals a softer, almost floral undertone with a waxy, honeyed nuance. The dry-down is clean and slightly sweet, leaving a subtle fruity trace that blends seamlessly with other notes without overpowering them.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a crisp, fruity top note complement to the citrus and tea accord, providing a juicy freshness that enhances the overall vibrancy.
Contributes to the fruity opening accord, blending with citrus notes to create a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired top.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Heptyl acetate is a straight-chain ester formed by the condensation of heptanol and acetic acid. As a synthetic material, it’s typically produced via acid-catalyzed esterification. The molecule lacks chiral centers, making stereochemistry irrelevant for its olfactory properties. Its relatively simple structure contributes to excellent stability in various pH conditions and resistance to oxidation compared to more complex natural fruit extracts.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 192-193 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.873 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.415-1.420 |
| Flash Point | 72 °C |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Fruity top note component |
| Soap | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Stable fruity note |
| Detergents | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | Cost-effective fruity character |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in citrus compositions to add fruity depth without compromising freshness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More intense fruity note with stronger green apple character, useful when a brighter top note is desired.
Stronger banana note, preferred when formulating banana or tropical fruit accords.
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 fragrance based on RIFM assessments.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, heptyl acetate offers consistent quality without natural sourcing variations. Its production from petrochemical feedstocks raises some environmental concerns, but its efficiency in use (requiring lower concentrations than natural extracts) partially offsets this impact. The material is readily biodegradable.
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References
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
- Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Allured Publishing.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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