Pentyl propionate (CAS 624-54-4) — Sweet Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Pentyl propionate
CAS 624-54-4
What Is Pentyl propionate?
Pentyl propionate is a synthetic ester commonly used in fruit-flavored products and perfumes. It imparts a sweet, fruity aroma reminiscent of apples and pears. This ingredient matters because it adds naturalistic fruit notes without relying on unstable natural extracts, making fragrances last longer while maintaining a fresh, approachable character.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Pentyl propionate Smell Like?
A burst of ripe orchard fruits – imagine biting into a just-picked apple with hints of juicy pear. The top note is intensely sweet and slightly green, evolving into a candied fruit heart with a faint rum-like undertone. Dry-down reveals a clean, slightly waxy finish that prevents cloying sweetness, making it versatile for both fresh and gourmand compositions.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as the primary apple accord in this photorealistic fragrance, pentyl propionate provides immediate fruity recognition while blending seamlessly with green notes.
Adds a subtle fruity lift to the floral bouquet, creating the impression of dew-covered flowers with ripe fruit nearby.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Pentyl propionate is an ester formed from pentanol and propionic acid. Industrially produced via acid-catalyzed esterification, it’s part of the ‘fruit ester’ family alongside similar molecules like isoamyl acetate. The straight-chain structure gives it better stability than branched esters, while the C5 alcohol moiety provides optimal volatility for top-note applications. No chirality concerns exist for this simple ester.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 168-170 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.872 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.407 |
| Flash Point | 53 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-3% | Up to 5% | Fruity top note |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-1% | Up to 2% | Apple/pear flavors |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus oils to brighten fruity compositions or with woody notes to create ‘fruitwood’ effects.
Alternatives & Comparisons
When a longer-lasting, less volatile fruity note is needed – has similar aroma but persists into heart notes.
For more banana-like fruitiness at lower cost, though with greater volatility and less refinement.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions – IFRA 49th Amendment compliant
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment complete – no safety concerns at current use levels.
Sustainability
Synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks, but efficient manufacturing processes result in low environmental impact. Biodegradability is excellent due to ester functionality. No agricultural land use or seasonal variability concerns like natural fruit extracts.
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Pentyl propionate CID 12345
- Burdock (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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- Odor Profile: apple, banana, fruity, pineapple, sweet, tropical
