Isotridecyl acetate (CAS 69103-23-7) — Sweet Middle-to-base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Sweet · Floral

Isotridecyl acetate

CAS 69103-23-7

Origin
synthetic
Note
Middle-to-base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Isotridecyl acetate?

Isotridecyl acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient often found in household cleaning products and industrial applications for its mild, fruity-floral odor. It acts as a solvent and fixative in various formulations. While not commonly used in fine fragrances, it provides cost-effective solutions for mass-market scented products where subtle background notes are needed.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Low toxicity profile
⚠ Avoid undiluted skin contact
CAS
69103-23-7
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Isotridecyl acetate Smell Like?

Isotridecyl acetate presents a clean, slightly sweet aroma with subtle fruity undertones reminiscent of pear drops and a faint floral whisper. Its odor profile is lightweight and diffusive, lacking the complexity of natural esters but providing functional tenacity in functional fragrances. The dry-down reveals a faintly waxy, alcohol-like character typical of higher molecular weight acetates.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Isotridecyl acetate belongs to the ester class, synthesized via esterification of isotridecanol with acetic acid. The branched C13 alcohol precursor gives this molecule greater stability compared to linear chain acetates. Industrial production typically employs acid catalysis under controlled conditions to minimize byproducts. The mixture of branched isomers creates a more complex olfactory profile than single-isomer compounds.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor ThresholdNot established

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle-to-base
Volatility
Moderate (hours)
Blending
Functional
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Functional Fragrances1-5%Up to 10%Background modifier
Cleaning Products0.5-3%Up to 5%Cost-effective freshener

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to extend floral-fruity notes in cost-sensitive formulations where subtlety is preferred.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Isoamyl acetate CAS 123-92-2

Stronger banana-like note for more impactful fruity effects.

2
Benzyl acetate CAS 140-11-4

Classic floral-jasmine character when more pronounced floral notes are needed.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions apply to isotridecyl acetate as of Amendment 51.

RIFM Assessment

Not currently evaluated by RIFM due to limited dermal exposure in typical applications.

Sustainability

As a petrochemical derivative, isotridecyl acetate’s environmental impact stems from fossil fuel extraction. However, its high odor potency allows for low usage levels. No known renewable alternatives exist for this specific branched-chain acetate at commercial scale.

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References

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

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    Perfumer’s Notes

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