Isobornyl acetate (CAS 0125-12-2) — Woody Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Isobornyl acetate
CAS 0125-12-2
What Is Isobornyl acetate?
Isobornyl acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly found in pine-scented cleaning products, air fresheners, and masculine colognes. It creates crisp, outdoorsy aromas reminiscent of conifer forests and alpine air. This versatile molecule helps bridge fresh top notes with woody base notes in many modern fragrances.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Isobornyl acetate Smell Like?
Isobornyl acetate bursts with a sharp, camphoraceous pine needle freshness that quickly settles into a smoother woody character. Imagine snapping a twig from a spruce tree – that initial resinous greenness mellows into something closer to cedarwood shavings. It maintains excellent diffusion while avoiding harshness, making it ideal for masculine fougères and sporty fragrances where it provides lift to heavier base materials.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
The iconic pine fragrance uses isobornyl acetate as its core note, creating the unmistakable forest freshness that made this fragrance legendary.
Used sparingly to add crispness to the ambroxan base, contributing to the fragrance’s outdoor freshness without overpowering.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Isobornyl acetate is an ester derived from camphene, typically synthesized through the esterification of isoborneol with acetic acid. This bicyclic monoterpenoid ester exhibits excellent stability and relatively low volatility compared to simpler terpenes. The rigid bicyclic structure contributes to its distinctive woody-camphoraceous odor profile that persists through the middle stages of fragrance evaporation.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 220-224 °C |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | 96 °C |
| Density | 0.98 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Woody fresh modifier |
| Soap | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Pine-type freshness |
| Household Cleaners | 0.1-1% | Up to 2% | Fresh pine accord |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to add crispness to woody bases without introducing excessive sweetness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
The natural counterpart with slightly softer, warmer pine character found in many conifer essential oils.
For a more floral-lavender variation on the pine theme with better solubility in alcohol bases.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards (49th Amendment).
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation confirms safe use at current industry levels.
Sustainability
As a purely synthetic material, isobornyl acetate production avoids harvesting of natural resources. Modern synthesis routes have significantly improved atom economy and reduced waste streams compared to traditional methods. Being petroleum-derived, its environmental impact depends on energy sources used in production.
Explore Isobornyl acetate
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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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