Chemical Name: Ethyl 2-methylbutanoate
Common Name in Perfumery: Citracetal
Molecular Formula: C₇H₁₄O₂
Molecular Weight: 130.19 g/mol
CAS Number: 7452-79-1
Appearance: Colorless liquid
Odor: Fruity, apple-like, juicy, slightly citrusy
Boiling Point: ~128°C (262°F)
Flash Point: ~25°C (77°F)
Solubility: Soluble in alcohol and oils; slightly soluble in water
Functional Group: Ester (not a true aldehyde, despite the perfumery name)
Perfumery Profile
Scent Profile:
- Fruity and juicy, reminiscent of green apples, pineapple, and pear
- Bright and refreshing with a hint of citrus
- Slightly acidic-sweet, evoking freshly cut fruit
Use in Perfumery:
- Adds a realistic fruit note to the top of compositions
- Common in citrus, fruity, and gourmand fragrances
- Often used to replicate apple, pineapple, or pear accords
- Brings vibrancy and a youthful, fun character to modern perfumes
Fragrance Families:
- Fruity
- Citrus
- Gourmand
- Green
Natural Source:
- Found naturally in trace amounts in fruits like apple, strawberry, and pineapple
- Typically synthetically produced for use in perfumery and flavoring
Notable Uses:
- Widely used in fruity and commercial fragrance blends
- Also popular in body sprays, shampoos, and juvenile or unisex fragrances