3-(4-Methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carbonitrile (CAS 68084-04-08) — Green Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Green · Woody

3-(4-Methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carbonitrile

CAS 68084-04-08

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

What Is 3-(4-Methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carbonitrile?

3-(4-Methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carbonitrile is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in modern perfumery to create fresh, green, and slightly woody accords. It’s found in some contemporary citrus and fougère fragrances. This molecule matters because it helps perfumers achieve crisp, natural-smelling green effects without relying on restricted natural materials.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
IFRA compliant at standard usage levels
Limited toxicity data available
CAS
68084-04-08
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 3-(4-Methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carbonitrile Smell Like?

This synthetic nitrile opens with a sharp, green burst reminiscent of crushed galbanum stems and unripe citrus peel. The initial intensity quickly mellows into a clean, woody-herbaceous heart with subtle floral undertones. Dry-down reveals a dry, slightly powdery texture with faint echoes of violet leaf and freshly cut cucumber. Its linear character makes it excellent for maintaining consistent green notes throughout a fragrance’s evolution.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

As a cyclohexene carbonitrile derivative, this molecule belongs to the family of synthetic green nitriles developed in the late 20th century. Its structure combines a cyclohexene ring with an unsaturated side chain terminated by a nitrile group, which contributes to both its volatility and green character. Industrial synthesis typically involves Diels-Alder reactions of appropriate dienes with acrylonitrile derivatives.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top to middle
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good with citrus and woody materials
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Green note modifier
Functional Fragrance0.1-1%Up to 3%Freshness booster

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with citrus top notes to prolong their fresh-green character into the heart phase.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Stemone CAS 63835-05-4

For a more floral-green effect with better diffusion.

2
Triplal CAS 27606-09-3

When a sharper, more pronounced green leaf character is desired.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No current IFRA restrictions (as of Amendment 51).

RIFM Assessment

Under review by RIFM – limited safety assessment available.

Sustainability

As a fully synthetic material, this nitrile avoids agricultural resource use but requires petrochemical feedstocks. Its production efficiency and stability make it a lower-impact alternative to some natural green materials with similar olfactory profiles.

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References

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

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