Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- (CAS 31195-95-6) — Woody Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)-
CAS 31195-95-6
What Is Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)-?
Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumery to add woody, phenolic nuances. You’ll find it in some masculine colognes and niche fragrances where it contributes depth. This molecule matters because it bridges herbal and smoky notes, allowing perfumers to create complex accords that evolve on skin over time.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- Smell Like?
Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- opens with a sharp medicinal punch reminiscent of antiseptic bandages, quickly softening into a warm, woody character like aged whiskey barrels. The phenolic edge persists through the heart, mingling with faint leathery undertones. In drydown, it leaves a trace of smoky birch and dried herbs – the olfactory equivalent of a weathered apothecary cabinet. Though initially assertive, it integrates beautifully with spices and woods, adding dimensionality without overwhelming compositions.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used sparingly here to enhance the flinty mineral accord, contributing a subtle phenolic roughness that contrasts with the citrus top notes and vetiver base.
Provides the burnt charcoal facet in this dark fragrance, amplifying the smoky woods with its medicinal phenolic character.
Works in tandem with birch tar to create the leathery, smoky foundation that defines this unconventional patchouli interpretation.
Adds charred wood complexity to the frankincense core, creating an impression of smoldering church incense.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- is an alkylphenol derivative where a 2-methylpropyl group is attached to the phenolic ring. This substitution pattern creates distinctive odor properties by altering the electron density of the aromatic system. Industrially synthesized through Friedel-Crafts alkylation of phenol with isobutylene, the molecule exhibits moderate volatility. The ortho-positioning of the bulky isobutyl group creates steric hindrance that influences both its reactivity and odor characteristics. Like many phenolics, it demonstrates antimicrobial properties that originally made it useful in disinfectant formulations before perfumery applications were discovered.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | ~230 °C (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Density | ~0.95 g/cm³ (estimated) |
| Vapor Pressure | Low (estimated) |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, oils; insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Used as accent note in woody compositions |
| Home Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Adds depth to woody candle scents |
| Functional Products | 0.05-0.2% | Up to 0.5% | Used sparingly in soaps for masculine notes |
Classic Accords
Tip: Balance with sweet materials like vanillin to soften phenolic harshness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar phenolic character but with fruity nuances, useful when more diffusion is needed without the medicinal edge.
Provides smokier phenolic notes with less medicinal character, better for leather accords.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards. Usage limited by sensitization potential rather than formal restrictions.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation ongoing. Preliminary data suggests moderate skin sensitization potential at high concentrations.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, phenol, (2-methylpropyl)- has minimal environmental impact from sourcing. Production typically uses petrochemical feedstocks, though newer green chemistry routes are being explored. Unlike some natural phenolics, it doesn’t contribute to deforestation or habitat loss. Waste streams from production require proper handling due to phenolic compounds’ aquatic toxicity.
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References
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH. ISBN 978-3-527-30656-9
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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