o-Methoxybenzaldehyde (CAS 0135-02-04) — Sweet Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient
o-Methoxybenzaldehyde
CAS 0135-02-04
What Is o-Methoxybenzaldehyde?
o-Methoxybenzaldehyde is a synthetic aromatic compound used in perfumery to create sweet, almond-like scents with a hint of floral character. You might encounter it in gourmand fragrances, body care products, or as a flavoring agent. This ingredient matters because it provides a cost-effective alternative to natural heliotropin, allowing perfumers to craft warm, comforting fragrances without relying on botanical extracts.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does o-Methoxybenzaldehyde Smell Like?
o-Methoxybenzaldehyde opens with a bright, cherry-like sweetness reminiscent of marzipan, quickly revealing a deeper almond core dusted with vanilla powder. As it develops, subtle floral facets emerge – imagine heliotrope petals dipped in honey. The dry-down is surprisingly tenacious for an aromatic aldehyde, leaving a soft, powdery trail that blends beautifully with vanilla and tonka bases. When overdosed, it can exhibit a sharp, almost medicinal edge that requires careful balancing with woody notes.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a heliotrope substitute in the powdery heart, contributing to the fragrance’s nostalgic, almond-tinged floralcy that defines its twilight melancholy.
Amplifies the honeyed tobacco accord, adding a gourmand dimension that bridges between hay-like coumarin and sweet amber notes.
Provides the signature ‘flour sack’ accord, blending with iris and sandalwood to create a uniquely edible woody fragrance.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
o-Methoxybenzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde with a methoxy group ortho to the formyl group. Industrially produced through the oxidation of o-methoxytoluene or via the Reimer-Tiemann reaction on guaiacol. The ortho substitution creates steric hindrance that affects its reactivity compared to unsubstituted benzaldehydes. Unlike its para isomer (anisaldehyde), it exhibits greater stability against oxidation while maintaining good solubility in both polar and non-polar solvents.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 238-240 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.119 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.555-1.558 |
| Flash Point | >100 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Used as heliotropin modifier |
| Soap | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Provides lasting sweet notes |
| Candles | 0.2-0.5% | Up to 1% | Heat-stable gourmand character |
Classic Accords
Tip: Stabilize in ethanol before adding to oil bases to prevent crystallization in cold formulas.
Alternatives & Comparisons
The natural benchmark for powdery almond notes, but more expensive and prone to discoloration in formulations.
Offers similar sweet characteristics but with stronger floral-hawthorn aspects and less powderiness.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions under Amendment 51. Usage compliant up to 100% in all categories.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation concluded safe use at current industry levels with no sensitization concerns.
Sustainability
As a purely synthetic material, o-Methoxybenzaldehyde avoids agricultural supply chain issues. Production typically uses petrochemical feedstocks, though some manufacturers are exploring bio-based routes from lignin derivatives. The compound’s stability reduces formulation waste compared to more labile natural alternatives.
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References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH. ISBN 978-3-527-30364-6
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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