2,6-Dimethyloct-7-en-2-yl formate (CAS 25279-09-08) — Citrus Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
2,6-Dimethyloct-7-en-2-yl formate
CAS 25279-09-08
What Is 2,6-Dimethyloct-7-en-2-yl formate?
2,6-Dimethyloct-7-en-2-yl formate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to create fresh, fruity, and slightly green top notes in perfumes. You’ll encounter it in modern citrusy and floral fragrances, often lending a crisp, uplifting quality. This molecule matters because it can mimic natural freshness while offering superior stability in formulations. Its synthetic nature allows for consistent quality and ethical sourcing compared to some natural alternatives.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 2,6-Dimethyloct-7-en-2-yl formate Smell Like?
A breezy, dewy freshness opens with the shimmer of crushed green apple skins and unripe pineapple. The heart reveals a subtle floralcy reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley petals touched by morning dew, while the dry-down carries a whisper of freshly cut stems. Unlike sharper citrus top notes, this molecule maintains a rounded, almost aqueous quality that blends seamlessly with both fruity and floral compositions, never dominating but always lifting.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here to amplify the citrus top while preventing excessive sharpness, creating the illusion of mountain spring water flowing through white flowers.
Provides the crisp ‘just-peeled citrus’ effect that makes this fragrance so instantly recognizable, blending with Sicilian lemon for added dimensionality.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
This branched-chain formate ester belongs to the terpenoid family, structurally related to natural compounds found in citrus peels. Industrial synthesis typically involves esterification of the corresponding alcohol with formic acid under controlled conditions. The molecule’s chirality at multiple centers contributes to its nuanced olfactory profile – the racemic mixture used commercially offers broader application versatility than isolated enantiomers might achieve.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | Not available |
|---|---|
| Density | Not available |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Fresh top note component |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Air care applications |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to bridge citrus and floral notes while preventing harshness in high-impact fresh fragrances.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For a more floral, bergamot-like character with similar fresh properties but lower tenacity.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No current IFRA restrictions
RIFM Assessment
Not currently assessed by RIFM
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, production avoids agricultural land use but depends on petrochemical feedstocks. Modern manufacturing processes typically employ green chemistry principles to minimize waste and energy consumption. Unlike some natural alternatives, this material doesn’t contribute to deforestation or habitat loss.
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References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. ISBN 9783527619580
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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