1-Methoxyhexane (CAS 4747-07-03) — Green Top Note Fragrance Ingredient

Green · Citrus

1-Methoxyhexane

CAS 4747-07-03

Origin
synthetic
Note
Top
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 1-Methoxyhexane?

1-Methoxyhexane is a synthetic aroma chemical rarely encountered by consumers directly. It may appear as a trace component in some industrial fragrances or household products. This compound is valued by perfumers for its unique ethereal quality, though it’s not a mainstream ingredient. Its subtle effects are most noticeable in creating airy, diffusive top notes that lift other ingredients.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Not currently restricted by IFRA
Limited safety data available
CAS
4747-07-03
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Citrus
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 1-Methoxyhexane Smell Like?

1-Methoxyhexane presents a crisp, ethereal character reminiscent of freshly peeled green apples with a metallic edge. Its initial burst carries a fleeting gasoline-like sharpness that quickly evolves into a clean, ozonic impression. The dry-down reveals subtle fruity undertones akin to underripe melon, though the overall effect remains transparent and diffusive. This molecule lacks staying power but provides an intriguingly ambiguous space that enhances other top notes.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

1-Methoxyhexane belongs to the alkyl methyl ether class, synthesized through Williamson ether synthesis by reacting 1-hexanol with methyl halides under basic conditions. Unlike many fragrance ethers, it lacks aromatic character, presenting a purely aliphatic structure. The methoxy group at position 1 creates distinctive electronic effects that influence its volatility and odor profile. Industrial production typically yields racemic mixtures as chirality has minimal impact on sensory properties in this case.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling PointNot established
DensityNot established

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top
Volatility
Very high (<15 min)
Blending
Moderate
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Functional Fragrance0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Used for diffusive lift
Fine FragranceTraceUp to 0.3%Special effect modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use in minute quantities to avoid dominating compositions with its sharp opening.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Ethyl hexyl ether CAS 123-91-1

Offers similar volatility with slightly fruitier character and better blending properties.

2
1,8-Cineole CAS 470-82-6

Provides comparable diffusive quality with added herbal complexity and better substantivity.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No specific restrictions under current IFRA standards (Amendment 49).

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM safety assessment currently available for this material.

Sustainability

As a fully synthetic material produced from petrochemical feedstocks, 1-Methoxyhexane has minimal direct environmental impact due to extremely low usage volumes. Production follows standard industrial chemical processes with appropriate controls. Green chemistry alternatives for ether synthesis may reduce energy requirements in future manufacturing.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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