Methyl ester of rosin (partially hydrogenated) (CAS 8050-15-5) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

Woody · Balsamic

Methyl ester of rosin (partially hydrogenated)

CAS 8050-15-5

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

What Is Methyl ester of rosin (partially hydrogenated)?

Methyl ester of rosin is a synthetic fragrance ingredient derived from pine tree resin. It’s commonly found in industrial fragrances, soaps, and cleaning products where a low-cost woody note is desired. This material provides a subtle pine-like character that blends well with other woody and citrus notes, making it useful for masculine and fresh compositions.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Approved for use in consumer products
May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals
CAS
8050-15-5
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Methyl ester of rosin (partially hydrogenated) Smell Like?

The methyl ester of rosin offers a dry, resinous woody character with subtle pine undertones. Its scent profile is reminiscent of aged pine sap – less sharp than fresh pine needles, more like the warm, slightly sweet aroma of sun-baked pine boards. The odor lacks the turpentine-like sharpness of raw rosin, presenting instead a smooth, slightly powdery wood note that works well as a base modifier. In blends, it adds a subtle amber-like quality without being overly sweet.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Methyl ester of rosin is produced by esterification of rosin acids (mainly abietic acid derivatives) with methanol, followed by partial hydrogenation. Rosin itself is obtained from pine trees, primarily as a byproduct of paper production. The hydrogenation step reduces color and improves stability while maintaining the desirable woody odor characteristics. The resulting material is a complex mixture of methyl esters of various diterpenoid acids.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceViscous liquid to semi-solid
ColorPale yellow to amber

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low (hours to days)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Soaps & Detergents1-3%Up to 5%Provides cost-effective woody note
Industrial Fragrances2-5%Up to 10%Used as woody base modifier
Cleaning Products0.5-2%Up to 3%Adds fresh woody character

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with citrus top notes to create affordable masculine cologne-type fragrances.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Abies alba wood oil CAS 90028-76-5

Natural alternative with similar pine character but more complexity and higher cost.

2
Vertofix CAS 68039-49-6

Synthetic woody amber material that provides more diffusion and tenacity.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA. Listed as generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation H319 Eye irritation

RIFM Assessment

RIFM has evaluated related rosin derivatives and found them safe at current usage levels.

Sustainability

As a byproduct of paper production, this material represents efficient use of pine tree resources. The synthetic modification process is relatively low-energy compared to many fragrance ingredients. Being derived from renewable pine sources rather than petrochemicals gives it an environmental advantage over some synthetic woody materials.

Explore Methyl ester of rosin (partially hydrogenated)

Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.

Browse on iHerb →

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

References

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

    Report a data error

    Similar Posts