Isopropylquinoline (CAS 1333-53-5) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Isopropylquinoline
CAS 1333-53-5
What Is Isopropylquinoline?
Isopropylquinoline is a synthetic aroma chemical used to add leathery, smoky nuances to fragrances. You’ll encounter it in niche perfumes and masculine colognes. This ingredient matters because it creates sophisticated, animalic accords that mimic high-end leather goods and tobacco without using actual animal-derived materials.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Isopropylquinoline Smell Like?
Isopropylquinoline delivers an intense leathery-smoky character with earthy undertones. Imagine the inside of a luxury car interior combined with fine cigar tobacco. The scent evolves from sharp, almost rubber-like top notes to a warm, slightly medicinal dry-down that lingers close to the skin for hours. At high concentrations, it can exhibit a phenolic quality reminiscent of antique wood polish.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used to recreate the classic Russian leather accord, contributing smoky depth alongside birch tar and cade oil in this historic Chanel masterpiece.
Provides the foundational leather note that makes this modern classic smell like expensive Italian car upholstery and raspberry-infused suede.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Isopropylquinoline belongs to the quinoline family of heterocyclic compounds. While quinolines occur naturally in coal tar and some essential oils, the isopropyl derivative is exclusively synthetic. It’s typically produced through Skraup synthesis or by alkylation of quinoline. The isopropyl group at the 2-position creates steric hindrance that modifies both volatility and odor characteristics compared to simpler quinolines.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to brown liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | Approx. 280-290°C |
| Density | ~1.05 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Leather/tobacco accords |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.2% | Masculine care products |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with ionones to soften harsh edges in leather compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More pungent and less refined, suitable for industrial applications where cost is prioritized over subtlety.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA, but recommended maximum 0.1% in leave-on products due to sensitization potential.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated related quinolines but no specific assessment found for isopropylquinoline.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, isopropylquinoline has minimal environmental impact during use. Production typically involves petrochemical feedstocks, though modern synthesis routes are optimizing atom economy. Being highly potent, very small quantities are needed, reducing overall resource consumption.
Explore Isopropylquinoline
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References
- Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Montclair, NJ.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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