N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide (CAS 179911-08-1) — Musky Middle to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide
CAS 179911-08-1
What Is N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide?
N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in modern perfumery. It’s found in niche and designer fragrances where its unique properties enhance scent profiles. This molecule matters because it offers perfumers a novel olfactory tool, allowing creation of contemporary scent signatures that stand out in crowded markets.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide Smell Like?
This synthetic amide presents a complex olfactory profile opening with sharp, almost metallic top notes that quickly transition to a warm, slightly animalic heart. The dry-down reveals a skin-like muskiness with subtle phenolic undertones, reminiscent of sun-warmed leather. Its evolution is linear yet sophisticated, maintaining a persistent presence without overwhelming other notes. The overall effect is intimate and modern, bridging the gap between clean synthetics and organic warmth.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Featured as the sole note, showcasing its full spectrum from sharp opening to velvety dry-down, demonstrating how single molecules can create complex olfactory experiences.
Used as a modern musk counterpart to green florals, providing depth and longevity while maintaining transparency in this futuristic floral composition.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: CCN(C(=O)CC)C1=CC=CC(C)=C1
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide belongs to the aromatic amide class, synthesized through condensation reactions between substituted anilines and propionic acid derivatives. Its structure features both aromatic and aliphatic components, creating unique electronic distribution that influences its odor properties. The ethyl and methyl substituents on the nitrogen and phenyl ring respectively contribute to its moderate volatility and distinctive scent profile.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, slightly soluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used as a modern musk alternative |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Provides subtle warmth in detergents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use at 0.5-1% in base notes to add subtle animalic warmth without overpowering florals.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For more floral musk character with better safety profile at higher concentrations.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted under IFRA standards. Monitor future amendments for potential classification updates.
RIFM Assessment
Under evaluation by RIFM as of 2023. Preliminary data suggests low sensitization potential.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, production avoids natural resource depletion. Manufacturing typically uses petrochemical feedstocks, though green chemistry approaches are being explored. Future developments may focus on bio-based synthesis routes to improve sustainability profile.
Explore N-Ethyl-N-(3-methylphenyl)propionamide
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References
- IFRA Standards Library (2023). 49th Amendment. IFRA Standards
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorPhysicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID80870147
Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 191.274 g/mol🔬 EPA CompTox |
| Density | 0.996 g/cm^3📊 OPERA |
| Boiling Point | 291.321 °C📊 OPERA |
| Melting Point | 41.597 °C📊 OPERA |
| Flash Point | 129.121 °C📊 OPERA |
| Refractive Index | 1.536 Dimensionless📊 OPERA |
| Molar Volume | 190.34 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 2.776 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 5.5) | 2.776 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogD (pH 7.4) | 2.776 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| LogKoa (Octanol-Air) | 7.46 Log10 unitless📊 OPERA |
| Water Solubility | 0.006 mol/L📊 OPERA |
| Henry's Law Constant | 0 atm-m3/mole📊 OPERA |
Transport Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 0.001 mmHg📊 OPERA |
| Viscosity | 8.591 cP📊 OPERA |
| Surface Tension | 37.61 dyn/cm📊 OPERA |
| Thermal Conductivity | 144.502 mW/(m*K)📊 OPERA |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 20.31 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 0 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 3 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Molar Refractivity | 59.32 cm^3/mol📊 OPERA |
| Polarizability | 23.516 Å^3📊 OPERA |
Data Sources:
🔬 EPA Experimental data from U.S. EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard & CTX APIs. 📊 OPERA Predicted using EPA's OPERA QSAR models. 💻 Computed Calculated from SMILES using RDKit.
