Tolualdehydes (mixed o,m,p) (CAS 1334-78-7) — Sweet Top to Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient
Tolualdehydes (mixed o,m,p)
CAS 1334-78-7
What Is Tolualdehydes (mixed o,m,p)?
Tolualdehydes are synthetic aromatic compounds used in perfumery for their sweet, floral, and slightly almond-like scent. They are commonly found in fragrances, soaps, and detergents. These aldehydes add a modern, slightly powdery character to scents, making them versatile in both fine and functional fragrances.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Tolualdehydes (mixed o,m,p) Smell Like?
Tolualdehydes offer a complex olfactory profile. Initially, they present a sweet, floral burst reminiscent of cherry blossoms and marzipan. As the scent evolves, it reveals a powdery, slightly herbal heart, akin to heliotrope. The dry-down is soft and musky, with lingering almond nuances. This progression makes tolualdehydes ideal for creating depth in floral and oriental compositions.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Tolualdehydes contribute to the iconic aldehydic floral bouquet, enhancing the powdery floralcy and modernizing the classic formula.
Used to amplify the floral sweetness and add a contemporary twist to the white floral accord.
2D Molecular Structure
SMILES: C*.O=CC1=CC=CC=C1 |c:5,7,t:3,lp:2:2,m:1:5.6.7|
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Tolualdehydes are aromatic aldehydes derived from toluene. They exist as ortho-, meta-, and para-isomers, each with distinct olfactory properties. Industrially, they are synthesized via oxidation of corresponding toluenes. Their molecular structure allows for versatile use in perfumery, contributing to both top and heart notes.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 198-204 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.02 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Adds floral sweetness |
| Soaps | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Enhances floral character |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use tolualdehydes to modernize floral compositions and add a sweet, powdery nuance.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A simpler aldehyde with a stronger almond note, used when a more pronounced nutty character is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA.
EU Allergen Declaration
None declared under EU allergen regulations.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has assessed tolualdehydes as safe for use in current applications.
Sustainability
Tolualdehydes are synthesized from petrochemical sources, raising concerns about sustainability. Efforts are underway to develop greener synthesis methods. Their synthetic origin ensures consistent quality and reduces reliance on natural resources.
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References
- PubChem Tolualdehydes PubChem
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorPhysicochemical Properties
DTXSID: DTXSID7051470
Partition & Solubility
| LogP (Octanol-Water) | 2.083 dimensionless💻 Computed |
Molecular Descriptors
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 17.07 Ų💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Donors | 0 count💻 Computed |
| H-Bond Acceptors | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Rotatable Bonds | 1 count💻 Computed |
| Aromatic Rings | 1 count💻 Computed |
Data Sources:
🔬 EPA Experimental data from U.S. EPA CompTox Chemicals Dashboard & CTX APIs. 📊 OPERA Predicted using EPA's OPERA QSAR models. 💻 Computed Calculated from SMILES using RDKit.
