Rosin, hydrogenated (CAS 65997-06-0) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Rosin, hydrogenated
CAS 65997-06-0
What Is Rosin, hydrogenated?
Hydrogenated rosin is a modified form of tree resin used in adhesives, inks, and some fragrance fixatives. It’s chemically stabilized to be more durable and less reactive. This ingredient matters in perfumery as it provides subtle woody-ambery notes while helping fragrances last longer on skin, often used behind the scenes rather than as a starring note.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Rosin, hydrogenated Smell Like?
Hydrogenated rosin offers a dry, warm, slightly sweet woody character with faint pine-like resinous undertones. Unlike raw rosin, it lacks sharp turpentine notes, presenting instead as a smooth, ambery base note that behaves like a gentle fixative. Over time, it develops a subtle powdery quality reminiscent of well-aged paper or antique wooden drawers, blending seamlessly with other base materials without dominating.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Hydrogenated rosin is produced by catalytically hydrogenating gum rosin (primarily abietic acid derivatives) to saturate double bonds and increase stability. This process converts resin acids like abietic acid into dihydroabietic acid derivatives, reducing oxidation potential and odor volatility while maintaining the material’s film-forming properties. The hydrogenation creates a more uniform molecular profile compared to natural rosin, with improved color stability and reduced allergenicity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber solid |
|---|---|
| Softening Point | 70-85 °C |
| Acid Value | 150-170 mg KOH/g |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Fixative and woody modifier |
| Functional Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 8% | Soap and detergent bases |
| Industrial | 5-15% | Up to 30% | Adhesive formulations |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus top notes to prevent excessive dryness in the dry-down.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Purified single component alternative when more molecular uniformity is desired in high-end applications.
Unmodified rosin for more natural, sharper resinous character when oxidation isn’t a concern.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Considered safe at current usage levels in fragrance applications.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM considers hydrogenated rosin safe as used in current fragrance practice with recommended limits.
Sustainability
While derived from renewable pine sources, hydrogenation requires energy-intensive processing. Some suppliers now offer rosin hydrogenated using green chemistry principles. Biodegradability is moderate due to chemical modification, though better than many synthetic musks. Responsible forestry practices in rosin sourcing help maintain ecosystem balance.
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References
- Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients (6th ed). CRC Press.
- Pine Chemicals Association Technical Guide Industry Resource
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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