Neryl acetate (CAS 0141-12-8) — Floral Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Neryl acetate
CAS 0141-12-8
What Is Neryl acetate?
Neryl acetate is a floral-scented compound often found in perfumes and cosmetic products. It contributes a fresh, rosy aroma reminiscent of bergamot and lavender. This ingredient matters because it adds a natural, uplifting quality to fragrances without being overpowering, making it a versatile tool for perfumers to create balanced compositions.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Neryl acetate Smell Like?
Neryl acetate opens with a bright, citrusy burst reminiscent of bergamot, quickly softening into a delicate floral heart with rosy and lavender-like nuances. The dry-down reveals a subtle green freshness, akin to crushed leaves, with a clean, slightly sweet finish. Its evolution is smooth and harmonious, making it ideal for adding a natural, uplifting touch to floral and citrus accords.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used to enhance the floral bouquet, adding a fresh, rosy nuance that balances the aldehydic top notes.
Contributes to the citrus-floral harmony, pairing with bergamot and rosemary for a crisp, elegant opening.
Adds a subtle green-floral lift to the jasmine and rose heart, enhancing the natural freshness.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Neryl acetate is an ester derived from nerol, a monoterpenoid alcohol. It is typically synthesized via esterification of nerol with acetic acid. The compound is chiral, with the (Z)-isomer being more common in nature. Its molecular structure contributes to its fresh, floral odor profile, making it a valuable ingredient in perfumery.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 232 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.91 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Adds floral freshness |
| Cosmetics | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Light, uplifting note |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use neryl acetate to brighten floral compositions without overwhelming delicate notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers a similar floral-citrus profile but with a softer, more lavender-like character.
Provides a sharper, more rose-like floral note, suitable for stronger floral accords.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under current IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safety for current use levels in fragrances.
Sustainability
Neryl acetate is typically synthesized from petrochemical sources, but sustainable production via bio-based nerol is being explored. Its efficient use in formulations minimizes environmental impact.
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References
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press. ISBN 9781420090772
- PubChem Compound Summary for Neryl acetate PubChem CID: 1549025
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 0141-12-8Physical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 196.29 g/mol🔬 PubChem |
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 3.5🔬 PubChem |
| log Kp (skin permeability) | -1.412💻 Calculated |
Odor & Flavor
| Primary Descriptors | floralsweet• leffingwell |
| “This ester finds use in perfume composi- tions, when cost allows for it, for NeroIi, I Jasmin, floral and fruity fragrance types. as a by-prod- Very sweet, fruity-floral odor of Raspberry- uct in the manufacture of Geranylacetate Rose character, refreshing and moderately from Myrcene by Hydrobromination and tenacious.”📖 Arctander | |
Sensory Thresholds
| Odor Detection Threshold | 22.3607 ppm (n=2)📖 van Gemert |
Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
