p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate (CAS 59230-57-8) — Woody Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate
CAS 59230-57-8
What Is p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate?
p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient often used in perfumes and scented products. It provides a fresh, slightly floral aroma with woody undertones. This ingredient helps create balanced, long-lasting scents by acting as a versatile modifier that bridges top and middle notes in fragrance compositions.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate Smell Like?
p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate opens with a crisp, slightly herbal freshness reminiscent of crushed green stems. As it evolves, a delicate floralcy emerges – like the faint memory of lily-of-the-valley after rain. The drydown reveals its true character: a smooth, woody base with whispers of sandalwood and a clean muskiness. This transformation creates remarkable tenacity for a modifier ingredient, lingering as a subtle skin scent for hours.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a green-floral bridge between galbanum top notes and hyacinth heart. Provides structural integrity to the legendary green chypre accord.
Modulates the citrus-herbal opening while supporting the floral bouquet. Contributes to the fragrance’s remarkable freshness duration.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
p-Isopropylbenzyl acetate belongs to the phenylpropanoid ester class, structurally related to naturally occurring floral volatiles. Industrially synthesized via Friedel-Crafts acylation of cumene followed by reduction and esterification. The para-substitution pattern contributes to its stability and odor characteristics. While not found in nature, its molecular framework mimics certain floral scent components.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | ~250 °C (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Density | ~0.96 g/cm³ (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Versatile modifier |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Freshness enhancer |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to smooth transitions between citrus tops and floral hearts while adding diffusion.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More floral but less tenacious. Suitable when a brighter top note is needed without the woody drydown.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions currently apply. Listed on IFRA Transparency List.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Evaluated by RIFM with no significant safety concerns at standard usage levels.
Sustainability
Synthetic production minimizes agricultural impact. Manufactured via efficient catalytic processes with good atom economy. Petroleum-derived but used in minute quantities per formulation.
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References
- IFRA Transparency List IFRA
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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