Pyroligneous acid extract (CAS 8028-47-5) — Balsamic Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Pyroligneous acid extract
CAS 8028-47-5
What Is Pyroligneous acid extract?
Pyroligneous acid extract, often called wood vinegar, is a smoky byproduct of charcoal production. It’s found in barbecue sauces, liquid smoke flavorings, and some niche fragrances evoking campfires or aged spirits. This ingredient matters because it provides an authentic, complex smokiness that synthetic alternatives struggle to replicate, while also having historical uses in food preservation and traditional medicine.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Pyroligneous acid extract Smell Like?
A dark, brooding aroma that unfolds like a damp forest after rain. Initial sharp acetic tang gives way to deep phenolic smokiness – imagine charred oak barrels meets smoldering birch bark. The dry-down reveals surprising nuances: faint medicinal leather, fermented apples, and an almost umami-rich depth that lingers for hours on skin. Unlike single-note smoke aromachemicals, this maintains a living, evolving character.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Pyroligneous acid is a complex mixture produced by destructive distillation of wood, primarily containing acetic acid (10-20%), methanol, acetone, and various phenolic compounds. The exact composition varies by wood source and pyrolysis conditions. Traditional production involves condensing smoke from charcoal kilns, while modern versions may undergo fractional distillation to standardize key components. The smoky character derives mainly from guaiacol, syringol, and their derivatives.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Dark brown liquid |
|---|---|
| Density | ~1.01-1.10 g/cm³ |
| pH | 2-3 |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Powerful smoky effect |
| Flavor | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.3% | BBQ/smoked meat profiles |
Classic Accords
Tip: Pre-dilute to 1% in ethanol before blending to avoid overwhelming compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
When cleaner, more controlled smokiness is needed without the complex fermentation notes.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not specifically restricted, but falls under general guidelines for phenolic compounds (IFRA 49).
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains natural phenols that may require declaration above certain thresholds.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated key phenolic constituents but not the full extract matrix.
Sustainability
Considered a byproduct utilization product when sourced from responsible charcoal production. Carbon footprint depends heavily on pyrolysis efficiency and transport distances. Synthetic smoke alternatives may have lower environmental impact per odor unit.
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References
- Oramahi, H.A. et al. (2018). Antimicrobial activity of pyroligneous acid from durian shell. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science. DOI:10.7324/JAPS.2018.81019
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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