Phenol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl- (CAS 88-60-8) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

Woody · Balsamic

Phenol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl-

CAS 88-60-8

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Phenol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl-?

This synthetic fragrance ingredient is a specialized chemical compound primarily used in industrial and niche perfumery. Consumers might encounter it in certain woody or medicinal fragrance compositions. While not common in mainstream products, it serves as a building block for creating unique scent profiles that require specific aromatic characteristics.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Potential skin irritant – handle with care
Limited safety data available
CAS
88-60-8
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Phenol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-methyl- Smell Like?

This compound presents a sharp, phenolic character with underlying woody and slightly medicinal nuances. The initial impression is intense and somewhat harsh, evolving into a drier, more subdued woody note over time. In dilution, it can contribute a leathery or smoky facet to fragrance compositions, though it requires careful blending to avoid overpowering other elements.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

This substituted phenol belongs to the alkylphenol class of aromatic compounds. The tert-butyl and methyl substituents on the phenolic ring create steric hindrance that influences both its chemical reactivity and odor properties. While naturally occurring phenols are widespread in plants, this particular substitution pattern is typically achieved through synthetic organic chemistry routes involving Friedel-Crafts alkylation reactions.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low
Blending
Challenging
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Industrial Fragrances0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Used as modifier in small quantities
Niche Perfumery0.01-0.1%Up to 0.3%For avant-garde compositions

Classic Accords

Tip: Use in trace amounts and always pre-dilute due to its potent phenolic character.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
para-Cresol CAS 106-44-5

Similar phenolic character but less woody, more animalic nuance.

2
Guaiacol CAS 90-05-1

Smoky phenolic note with softer, more complex aroma profile.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation H319 Eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM assessment currently available for this specific compound.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, this compound’s environmental impact depends on manufacturing processes. While it doesn’t rely on natural resources, its production requires petrochemical feedstocks and energy-intensive processes. Proper handling and disposal are important due to its phenolic nature.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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