Methyl 4(or 1)-isopropyl-1(or 4)-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-5-ene-2-carboxylate (CAS 68966-86-9) — Green Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Green · Woody

Methyl 4(or 1)-isopropyl-1(or 4)-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-5-ene-2-carboxylate

CAS 68966-86-9

Origin
synthetic
Note
Middle
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Methyl 4(or 1)-isopropyl-1(or 4)-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-5-ene-2-carboxylate?

This synthetic ingredient is a rare bicyclic ester used in niche fragrances to add woody-green nuances with camphoraceous undertones. Perfumers value it for creating abstract forest impressions that bridge herbal and woody accords, offering an alternative to traditional pine or cedar notes.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
No major restrictions reported
Limited safety data – use at low levels
CAS
68966-86-9
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Methyl 4(or 1)-isopropyl-1(or 4)-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-5-ene-2-carboxylate Smell Like?

Opens with a crisp, almost metallic greenness reminiscent of crushed pine needles and wet stones. The core reveals a complex interplay of camphor-like coolness with subtle woody undertones that evoke freshly cut lumber. Dry-down leans toward dry, earthy tones with faintly resinous character, leaving a clean yet mysterious trail. Imagine walking through a foggy coniferous forest at dawn, where the air carries equal parts chlorophyll and damp tree bark.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

This bicyclic ester belongs to a class of strained ring compounds that challenge traditional synthesis routes. The isopropyl and methyl substituents create steric hindrance that influences both volatility and odor characteristics. Industrial production likely involves Diels-Alder cycloaddition followed by esterification, though exact commercial processes remain proprietary. The rigid bicyclo[2.2.2]octene framework contributes to its unusual stability among terpenoid-like structures.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle
Volatility
Medium (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Conceptual Fragrances0.5-2%Up to 5%For avant-garde woody-green effects
Functional Products0.1-0.5%Up to 1%As a clean woody modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use sparingly to add dimension to woody bases without overwhelming floral elements.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Vertenex CAS 107898-54-4

More transparent woody note without camphoraceous aspects

2
Timberol CAS 70788-30-6

Warmer cedar-like alternative with better diffusion

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM assessment found for this specific compound.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, production involves petrochemical feedstocks but requires minimal quantities due to potency. Future green chemistry approaches could optimize synthesis pathways to reduce environmental impact. The material’s stability suggests potential for biodegradation studies.

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References

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

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