Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal (CAS 5468-05-03) — Floral Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient
Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal
CAS 5468-05-03
What Is Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal?
Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add floral-green nuances to perfumes and scented products. You’ll encounter it in floral bouquets, soaps, and air fresheners. This molecule matters because it provides a stable, long-lasting version of phenylacetaldehyde’s natural hyacinth-like character without the harshness or volatility of the aldehyde form.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal Smell Like?
Opens with a dewy green freshness reminiscent of crushed hyacinth stems, quickly unfolding into a narcotic floral heart with honeyed undertones. The propyleneglycol acetal modification lends a rounded sweetness compared to phenylacetaldehyde’s sharper edges. Dry-down reveals a soft powdery texture with subtle almond-like facets that persist on skin for hours. When overdosed, can develop a waxy, candle-like character.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here to amplify the floralcy of ylang-ylang and damask rose while preventing the composition from becoming too jammy.
Provides a crisp green-floral lift to the quince-jasmine accord, creating the impression of morning dew on petals.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
This acetal derivative protects phenylacetaldehyde’s reactive aldehyde group through formation of a cyclic propyleneglycol acetal. The resulting structure shows improved stability against oxidation while retaining the parent molecule’s floral character. Synthesized via acid-catalyzed reaction between phenylacetaldehyde and propylene glycol. The bicyclic structure exists as a mixture of cis/trans isomers, with the cis form generally exhibiting greater floral intensity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | ~250 °C (est.) |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | >100 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Floral modifier |
| Soap | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Stable in alkaline media |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with ionones to create a seamless floral-ambery drydown.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More volatile with sharper green notes. Better for top notes but less stable in alkaline systems.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA 49th Amendment.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation complete – no significant safety concerns at current use levels.
Sustainability
Synthetic production avoids harvesting natural phenylacetaldehyde from plants. Manufacturing typically uses green chemistry principles with high atom economy. Biodegradability studies show moderate environmental persistence.
Explore Phenylacetaldehyde propyleneglycol acetal
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
Browse on iHerb →Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Modern Fragrance Chemistry. Wiley-VCH.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data error
