Pine tar oil, rectified (CAS 8011-48-1) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Pine tar oil, rectified
CAS 8011-48-1
What Is Pine tar oil, rectified?
Pine tar oil, rectified is a dark, viscous liquid derived from the destructive distillation of pine wood. People encounter it in traditional medicines, soaps, and some niche fragrances where its smoky, woody character is prized. This ingredient matters because it carries centuries of forest heritage in its scent profile, offering perfumers a direct link to ancient woodcraft traditions and natural resinous aromas.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Pine tar oil, rectified Smell Like?
Rectified pine tar oil opens with an intense, almost medicinal smokiness reminiscent of a campfire doused with resinous sap. The heart reveals creosote-like phenolic notes alongside leathery undertones, like an old wooden barrel aged in damp cellars. As it dries down, sweeter vanillic facets emerge, balanced by persistent woody-balsamic depth that lingers for hours. The overall effect is primal and evocative – the scent equivalent of charred timber soaked in decades of wood smoke.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Uses rectified pine tar as the dark backbone of this forest soliflore, amplifying the scent of sun-warmed pine needles and resinous bark with its smoky density.
Pine tar’s resinous facets enhance the Christmas tree accord, adding burnt sugar nuances to the frankincense and spice composition.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Pine tar oil consists primarily of aromatic hydrocarbons, phenolic compounds, and resin acids formed during the pyrolysis of pine wood. Rectification removes lighter fractions and some harsh phenolic compounds. Key constituents include guaiacol, creosol, and various methyl ethers of phenol. The exact composition varies based on pine species and distillation parameters, with Scandinavian Pinus sylvestris producing particularly rich tars. Modern rectification involves steam distillation to reduce carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons while preserving desirable odor characteristics.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Dark brown viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used sparingly for smoky accents |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Soaps and masculine products |
Classic Accords
Tip: Dilute to 10% in ethanol before blending to improve dispersion and measure accurately.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar smoky-leathery notes but with more pronounced phenolic and medicinal character, preferred for leather accords.
Woodier and less medicinal alternative from juniper, useful when a drier smoke effect is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA but recommended at low levels due to potential sensitization.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains guaiacol and cresols which may require declaration above certain concentrations.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated pine tar oil but recommends caution due to variable composition and potential sensitizers.
Sustainability
Pine tar production is sustainable when sourced from managed forests, though traditional kiln methods can be energy intensive. Modern rectification reduces environmental impact by concentrating active components. Some perfumers prefer synthetic alternatives to minimize sourcing variability and ecological footprint.
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