Naphtha, petroleum, heavy alkylate (CAS 64741-65-7) — Woody N/A Note Fragrance Ingredient
Naphtha, petroleum, heavy alkylate
CAS 64741-65-7
What Is Naphtha, petroleum, heavy alkylate?
Heavy alkylate naphtha is a refined petroleum product used as a solvent in industrial applications and some fragrance bases. It’s typically not encountered directly by consumers but may be present in trace amounts in manufactured goods. This ingredient helps stabilize fragrance mixtures and extend shelf life, though it’s primarily valued for its technical properties rather than aromatic qualities.
Safety Profile
PROFESSIONAL USEWhat Does Naphtha, petroleum, heavy alkylate Smell Like?
Heavy alkylate naphtha has a faint, generic hydrocarbon odor – reminiscent of mineral spirits or kerosene with a dry, slightly waxy character. The aroma is more functional than pleasant, lacking distinct top or base notes. In formulations, it primarily serves as an odorless carrier rather than contributing to the scent profile, though traces may impart a subtle petroleum nuance at high concentrations.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Heavy alkylate naphtha is a complex mixture of branched-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons derived from petroleum refining. Produced through alkylation processes that combine smaller molecules into heavier, more stable compounds. The exact composition varies by source but typically contains C9-C16 hydrocarbons with high isoparaffin content. Lacks aromatic rings or functional groups, making it chemically inert and resistant to oxidation.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | >60°C |
| Density | 0.75-0.80 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Fragrances | 5-20% | Up to 50% | Carrier solvent |
| Cleaning Products | 10-30% | Up to 70% | Deodorizer base |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use only in well-ventilated areas and avoid skin contact during handling.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Similar solvent properties with lower odor profile for applications requiring minimal scent interference.
Pure hydrocarbon alternative when precise molecular weight control is needed in formulations.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not specifically restricted by IFRA but falls under general hydrocarbon solvent guidelines.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Not individually assessed by RIFM – evaluated as part of hydrocarbon solvent class.
Sustainability
Petroleum-derived with significant carbon footprint from extraction and refining processes. Not biodegradable. Some manufacturers offer recycled or reclaimed naphtha streams as more sustainable options, though these may contain higher impurity levels requiring additional processing.
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References
- Petroleum Hydrocarbon Solvents. (2021). Chemical Economics Handbook.
- OECD SIDS Initial Assessment Profile for Alkylate Naphtha OECD SIDS
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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