Isoalkanes, C9-11 (CAS 68551-16-6) — Citrus Carrier Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Isoalkanes, C9-11

CAS 68551-16-6

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

What Is Isoalkanes, C9-11?

Isoalkanes (C9-11) are synthetic hydrocarbons used as solvents in perfumery. They help dissolve fragrance oils and fixatives without altering scent profiles. Commonly found in aerosol sprays and fine fragrances where evaporation control is critical. These odorless ingredients provide structural support to fragrance formulations, enabling consistent performance across different product types.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-toxic and non-irritating
✓ Not classified as hazardous
CAS
68551-16-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Isoalkanes, C9-11 Smell Like?

Isoalkanes are completely odorless, serving as a neutral carrier in fragrance formulations. Their lack of scent makes them ideal for applications where the purity of other aromatic components must be preserved. The material evaporates cleanly without leaving residual odor, functioning as an invisible scaffold for volatile fragrance compounds.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Isoalkanes C9-11 are branched-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons synthesized through oligomerization processes. Their molecular structure provides excellent solvency with low chemical reactivity. The branched configuration gives these compounds their characteristic physical properties – low viscosity, high volatility, and good spreading characteristics. Being saturated hydrocarbons, they exhibit high stability against oxidation.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless liquid
Boiling Range150-200°C
Flash Point60-70°C
Density0.74-0.77 g/cm³

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Carrier
Volatility
Medium
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Aerosols20-50%Up to 80%Primary solvent
Fine Fragrance5-15%Up to 30%Fixative base
Personal Care10-20%Up to 40%Carrier for actives

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as replacement for traditional solvents when odorless performance is required.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Isododecane CAS 31807-55-3

Higher molecular weight alternative with slower evaporation rate.

2
Cyclopentasiloxane CAS 541-02-6

Silicon-based carrier providing different spreading characteristics.

Layer 3

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

RIFM assessment confirms safe use in current applications.

Sustainability

Synthesized from petroleum feedstocks, isoalkanes have relatively low environmental impact due to their complete volatility and lack of bioaccumulation potential. Manufacturing processes continue to improve energy efficiency. No known ecological toxicity at current usage levels.

Explore Isoalkanes, C9-11

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References

  1. IFRA Standards Library IFRA
  2. EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List EPA SCIL

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

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