Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol (CAS 71832-76-3) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol
CAS 71832-76-3
What Is Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol?
Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and scented products. It contributes woody, amber-like notes that are often found in masculine and unisex fragrances. This molecule matters because it provides long-lasting base notes that help anchor lighter top notes, creating balanced scent profiles that evolve beautifully over time.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol Smell Like?
Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol opens with a crisp woody character reminiscent of freshly sanded cedar planks, gradually revealing a complex heart of warm amber nuances with hints of dry tobacco leaves. As it dries down, it develops a sophisticated muskiness akin to well-aged leather bound books in a sunlit library. The scent maintains remarkable tenacity, evolving over hours into a soft, powdery woodiness that lingers close to the skin.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a woody-amber backbone that complements the signature sandalwood accord, adding depth and longevity to this cult fragrance.
Provides the mineralic, flint-like woody character that grounds the citrus top notes in this modern classic.
Contributes to the luminous woody-musk accord that makes this fragrance simultaneously warm and transparent.
Enhances the dry, pencil-shaving woodiness of the sandalwood note while preventing the composition from becoming too sweet.
Forms part of the ink-like woody accord that gives this fragrance its distinctive dark, graphite-like character.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol belongs to the decalin family of compounds, characterized by their fused cyclohexane rings. This fully hydrogenated naphthol derivative is synthesized through catalytic hydrogenation of trimethylnaphthol precursors. The molecule’s three methyl groups create steric hindrance that influences its odor profile and evaporation rate. While the compound lacks chiral centers, its rigid bicyclic structure contributes to excellent stability in fragrance formulations.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | ~250 °C (estimated) |
| Density | ~0.95 g/cm³ (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Woody-amber base note |
| Home Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Long-lasting woody character |
| Personal Care | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Stable in soaps and lotions |
| Functional Products | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | Used for masking in detergents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus top notes to create contrast and with musks to enhance diffusion.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More transparent woody note with better diffusion but less amber character.
Provides similar longevity with more ambergris-like character rather than pure woodiness.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
No specific RIFM assessment found for this material.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, octahydro-2,5,5-trimethyl-2-naphthol offers consistent quality without natural resource depletion. Its production avoids deforestation concerns associated with some natural woody materials. The synthetic route typically involves petrochemical feedstocks, though some manufacturers may use bio-based starting materials where available.
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References
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
- Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Allured Publishing.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 71832-76-3Odor & Flavor
| “CO–CH3 Heavy-sweet, somewhat animal-floral odor of considerable tenacity, faintly reminiscent of tobacco leaf odor.”📖 Arctander |
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.
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